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Perspectives of the Nrf-2 signaling pathway in cancer progression and therapy

Priyanka Basak1, Pritam Sadhukhan1, Poulami Sarkar1

  • 1Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, P-1/12, CIT Scheme VII M, Kolkata, West Bengal 700054, India.

Toxicology Reports
|September 30, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor2 (Nrf2) regulates cellular defense but also promotes cancer. Targeting Nrf2 offers potential cancer therapy by downregulating its activity and enhancing chemosensitivity.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor2 (Nrf2) is a master regulator of cellular redox homeostasis.
  • Nrf2 controls antioxidant and detoxification enzymes, protecting against toxic insults.
  • Conversely, Nrf2 activation is linked to cancer progression and chemoresistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the roles of Nrf2 in pathophysiological conditions, with an emphasis on cancer.
  • To discuss Nrf2 regulation, including KEAP1-dependent and independent pathways.
  • To evaluate therapeutic strategies targeting Nrf2 signaling for cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on Nrf2.
  • Analysis of Nrf2 regulation mechanisms (KEAP1-dependent and independent).
  • Evaluation of therapeutic approaches modulating Nrf2 signaling.

Main Results:

  • Nrf2 plays a dual role in cancer, promoting progression and chemoresistance.
  • Nrf2 activity is tightly regulated by various factors, including proteins and small molecules.
  • Downregulating Nrf2 activity is a potential therapeutic strategy.

Conclusions:

  • Modulating Nrf2 signaling is a promising avenue for cancer therapy.
  • Targeting Nrf2 can potentially increase chemosensitivity in cancer patients.
  • Further research into Nrf2 regulation and therapeutic targeting is warranted.
Keywords:
CarcinogenesisCell proliferationChemopreventionKEAP1Nrf2Oxidative stressTranscription factor

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