This first volume of the comprehensive, two-volume work on oxidative stress in lung disease introduces the molecular mechanisms, and the role of oxidants in the progression of different lung diseases. The lungs of humans and animals are under constant threat from oxidants from either endogenous (e.g. in situ metabolic reactions) or exogenous sources (e.g. air pollutants). Further, oxidative stress causes the oxidation of proteins, DNA and lipids, which in turn generates secondary metabolic products. The book consists of sections, each focusing on different aspects of oxidant-mediated lung diseases. As such it is a unique reference resource for postgraduate students, biomedical researchers and also for the clinicians who are interested in studying and understanding oxidant-mediated lung diseases. The second volume will incorporate other aspects of oxidant-mediated lung diseases, including prevention and therapeutics.