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Published on: May 18, 2017
Pterostilbene-mediated Nrf2 activation: Mechanistic insights on Keap1:Nrf2 interface
Elango Bhakkiyalakshmi1, Kesavan Dineshkumar2, Suresh Karthik1
1Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM University, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
Pterostilbene (PTS) inhibits the Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction, activating Nrf2. This natural compound shows potential for treating oxidative stress disorders.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The Keap1-Nrf2 pathway regulates cellular responses to oxidative and electrophilic stress.
- Inhibiting the Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) is a key strategy for developing treatments for stress-related disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of pterostilbene (PTS) as a Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitor and Nrf2 activator.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying PTS-mediated Nrf2 activation.
Main Methods:
- Luciferase complementation assay to assess Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibition.
- Nuclear translocation experiments and ARE-luciferase reporter assay for Nrf2 activation.
- Molecular docking and dynamic simulation for computational analysis.
Main Results:
- PTS was confirmed as a potent Nrf2 activator and Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitor.
- PTS demonstrated dose- and time-dependent inhibition of Keap1-Nrf2 PPI.
- Computational studies revealed direct interaction of PTS with Keap1's kelch domain, perturbing the PPI.
Conclusions:
- PTS effectively activates Nrf2 by inhibiting the Keap1-Nrf2 interaction.
- PTS exhibits potential as a therapeutic agent for oxidative stress-associated conditions.
- The study provides mechanistic insights into PTS-driven Nrf2 activation.
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