Reactive oxygen species and the bacterial response to lethal stress

Highlights • Lethal antimicrobial stress triggers accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). • The stress-mediated ROS cascade and its effects are controlled in multiple ways. • At moderate levels, ROS reduce stress by inducing protective regulons. • At high levels, ROS can be destructive by creating a variety of secondary lesions. • Dietary consumption of antioxidants may antagonize antimicrobial therapy.