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Published on: December 4, 2018

Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NFE2L2) is a novel therapeutic target for diabetic complications

Xiaohong Xu1, Ping Luo, Yangwei Wang

  • 1Department of Nephropathy, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China.

The Journal of International Medical Research
|April 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) activation combats oxidative stress, offering a promising therapeutic target for preventing and treating diabetic complications like kidney and heart failure.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Biology

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus is a major global health concern, leading to significant mortality and morbidity.
  • Diabetic complications arise from chronic hyperglycemia-induced organ damage, affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
  • The transcription factor NFE2L2 (NRF2) plays a crucial role in cellular defense against oxidative stress.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted role of NFE2L2 in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications.
  • To highlight the therapeutic potential of NRF2 activation for diabetic organ damage.
  • To focus on NRF2's involvement in diabetic nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating NFE2L2 function in diabetic complications.
  • Analysis of in vitro and in vivo data demonstrating NRF2's protective effects.
  • Examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying NRF2-mediated antioxidant responses.

Main Results:

  • NFE2L2 activation confers protection against oxidative stress in various models of diabetic complications.
  • NRF2 modulates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, mitigating organ damage.
  • Evidence supports NRF2's efficacy in preclinical models of diabetic nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy.

Conclusions:

  • NFE2L2 is a critical regulator of cellular protection against diabetic complications.
  • Targeting NRF2 activation presents a viable strategy for the prophylaxis and treatment of diabetes-related organ damage.
  • NRF2 activation holds significant promise for future clinical applications in managing diabetic patients.

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