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The Nrf2 Signaling in Retinal Ganglion Cells under Oxidative Stress in Ocular Neurodegenerative Diseases

Xiu-Fen Liu1, Dan-Dan Zhou2, Tian Xie3

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China.

International Journal of Biological Sciences
|July 11, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) protects retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from oxidative stress in neurodegenerative eye diseases. Nrf2 activators offer a promising therapeutic strategy for conditions like diabetic retinopathy.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are crucial for vision and vulnerable to neurodegeneration.
  • Oxidative stress is a key factor in RGC death in ocular diseases.
  • Identifying neuroprotective agents for RGCs is a significant research focus.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the mechanism of Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2)-mediated neuroprotection in RGCs.
  • To review Nrf2's role in ocular neurodegenerative diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury.
  • To discuss Nrf2 inducers as potential therapeutic agents.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on Nrf2 signaling pathways.
  • Analysis of studies investigating oxidative stress and RGC death.
  • Examination of therapeutic strategies involving Nrf2 activation.

Main Results:

  • Nrf2 acts as a master regulator of the cellular antioxidant response.
  • Nrf2 activation confers significant neuroprotection to RGCs against oxidative damage.
  • Specific Nrf2 inducers demonstrate efficacy in preclinical models.

Conclusions:

  • The Nrf2 pathway is a critical target for neuroprotection in RGCs.
  • Targeting Nrf2 signaling presents a promising therapeutic avenue for ocular neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Further research into Nrf2 inducers could lead to novel treatments.
Keywords:
Keap1Nrf2neurodegenerative diseasesoxidative stressretinal ganglion cells

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