ABSTRACT
Oxidative damage theory is currently one of the predominant theories on the mechanisms of aging. Previous research has shown that antioxidants can extend the lifespan in the model organism by scavenging free radicals,inducing the expression of stress related genes and hormesis. However, recent studies have suggested that these pharmaceuticals may cause serious side effects,such as promoting oxidation,increasing the risk of cancer,and destroying the metabolic balance. The low absorption and targeting property also limit the efficiency of most antioxidants. As a result ,the correlation between antioxidants and lifespan extension remains to be demonstrated. We reviewed the research progress in the field of lifespan extension by antioxidants in recent years and provided references for future research in related areas.