Professor Ali A. Moosavi-Movahedi, Head of the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB) and Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair on Interdisciplinary Research in Diabetes (UCIRD) at the University of Tehran, participated in the international summit titled “UNESCO Chairs Summit of Scientific Solidarity – Building Bridges Across Borders.” He delivered a lecture entitled “Oxidative Stress: The Molecular Driver of Diabetic Complications.” This event was hosted by the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) at the University of Karachi, Pakistan, on 25 November 2025 and was held in virtual format. UNESCO Chairs from various countries participated in the meeting and presented their reports.
In his address, emphasized the necessity of strengthening collaboration among UNESCO Chairs, Universities, and Academies of Sciences at national, regional, and international levels. He highlighted the importance of forming a cohesive and synergistic network to advance science, wisdom, innovation, and technology through collective effort and shared vision.
The abstract of his lecture is as follows:
Oxidative stress lies at the molecular core of diabetic complications, functioning both as a major driver of cellular damage and as a connecting link among metabolic imbalance, inflammation, and long-term organ dysfunction. As described in the presentation, excessive production of free radicals particularly reactive oxygen species (ROS) damages biomacromolecules, weakens cellular integrity, and accelerates the progression of type 2 diabetes and its associated disorders. However, through restoring balance via healthy lifestyle practices, education, and scientifically informed approaches, this destructive cycle can be controlled or even reversed.
A healthy lifestyle consisting of nutrient-rich and balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and especially high-quality sleep provides a powerful antioxidant foundation that strengthens the body’s natural defenses. Both edible and non-edible antioxidants, from nutraceutical molecules to melatonin produced during restorative sleep, play essential roles in neutralizing stress at the molecular level. Therefore, public education, cultural promotion, and the institutionalization of these lifestyle practices are indispensable.
The UCIRD emphasizes that scientific cooperation, community awareness, and evidence-based policymaking are key elements in reducing the global burden of diabetes. Now more than ever, scientific institutions must unite and guided by science, wisdom, ethics, and innovation to safeguard human health and build a resilient and flourishing society.

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