Background
4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-hydroxynonenal, 4-HNE) is a highly reactive aldehyde generated by
the exposure of polyunsaturated fatty acids to peroxides and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
It non-enzymatically forms stable protein adducts with histidine, lysine, and cysteine side
chains that have been used as biomarkers for oxidative damage in cells. Conditions where 4-
HNE immunoreactivity has been observed include include inflammation, neurodegenerative
diseases, and ischemic damage to the heart and brain.
