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Applications of the Keap1-Nrf2 system for gene and cell therapy

Katja M Kanninen1, Yuriy Pomeshchik1, Hanna Leinonen2

  • 1Department of Neurobiology, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Finland.

Free Radical Biology & Medicine
|July 13, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Oxidative stress contributes to various diseases. Gene therapy targeting the Nrf2 pathway offers potential treatments for neurological disorders and cancer by modulating its activity.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
  • Neuroscience
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Oxidative stress is implicated in acute and chronic diseases, including central nervous system injuries, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
  • The transcription factor Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) is a key regulator of cellular defense against oxidative stress.
  • While Nrf2 activation provides cytoprotection, its dysregulation in cancer promotes tumor growth by upregulating protective genes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review preclinical gene therapy strategies aimed at modulating Nrf2 activity.
  • To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting Nrf2 in neurological diseases and cancer.
  • To discuss the role of Nrf2 in stem cell therapy for neurological disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current preclinical research on gene therapy approaches for Nrf2 modulation.
  • Analysis of studies investigating Nrf2's role in cancer cell proliferation and survival.
  • Examination of Nrf2's involvement in stem cell-based therapies for neurological conditions.

Main Results:

  • Preclinical gene therapy approaches are being developed to either enhance or suppress Nrf2 activity.
  • Targeting Nrf2 holds promise for treating both neurological diseases and various cancers.
  • Nrf2 plays a significant role in the efficacy of stem cell therapies for neurological disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Modulating Nrf2 activity through gene therapy represents a promising therapeutic avenue for oxidative stress-related diseases.
  • Further research into Nrf2-targeted therapies is warranted for neurological conditions and cancer treatment.
  • Understanding Nrf2's function is crucial for advancing stem cell therapy in neurodegenerative disorders.
Keywords:
CancerGene therapyNeurodegenerative diseasesNrf2Spinal cord injuryStem cell therapyTranscription factor

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