Role of Nrf2 in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Molecular Medicine
• Inflammation Research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting arterial walls, with over 100 genes implicated in its development.
• The Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway is crucial for oxidative stress response and drug metabolism.
• Nrf2 signaling is increasingly recognized for its complex role in the physiological and pathophysiological processes underlying atherosclerosis progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the multifaceted role of the Nrf2 signaling pathway in atherosclerosis.
• To understand how Nrf2 modulates key cellular processes involved in the development of atherosclerosis.
• To evaluate the potential of targeting the Nrf2 pathway as a therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis prevention.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Nrf2 signaling and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of studies investigating Nrf2's influence on lipid homeostasis, foam cell formation, macrophage polarization, redox balance, and inflammation.
• Examination of experimental animal models demonstrating both pro- and anti-atherogenic effects of Nrf2.

Main Results:

• Nrf2 signaling significantly impacts lipid homeostasis and foam cell formation.
• Nrf2 activity influences macrophage polarization and inflammatory responses within the arterial wall.
• Experimental models show dual effects of Nrf2, highlighting its complex involvement in atherosclerosis.
• Nrf2 plays a critical role in regulating redox balance, a key factor in vascular disease.

Conclusions:

• The Nrf2 pathway is intricately linked to multiple facets of atherosclerosis development and progression.
• Nrf2 exhibits context-dependent pro- and anti-atherogenic activities.
• Targeting the Nrf2 signaling pathway presents a promising avenue for the development of novel atherosclerosis prevention strategies.