Reactive oxygen species(ROS)and oxidative stress are key factors in the development and progression of tumors.Low levels of ROS can stimulate tumor cells proliferation and survival,while excessive ROS can cause cell damage and apoptosis.As a result,the regulation of ROS has become a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.This review examines and compares the anti-tumor mechanisms of antioxidants and pro-oxidants,with the aims to provide new insights and ideas for the development of anti-cancer drugs and cancer treatment strategies.