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NRF2 in human neoplasm: Cancer biology and potential therapeutic target

Yang Liu1, Fengchao Lang1, Chunzhang Yang1

  • 1Neuro-Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.

Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|August 19, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) regulates protective genes against cellular stress. Cancer cells exploit NRF2 pathways for growth and survival, highlighting NRF2 as a therapeutic target.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a key regulator of cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative and electrophilic stress.
  • NRF2 controls the expression of numerous cytoprotective genes, maintaining cellular homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of NRF2 pathways is increasingly recognized in various pathologies, particularly in cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the regulatory mechanisms governing NRF2 activity.
  • To elucidate the multifaceted roles of NRF2 in cancer biology, including its contribution to malignant transformation.
  • To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting NRF2-associated pathways in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent advances in NRF2 research.
  • Analysis of studies investigating NRF2 regulation and function in cancer.
  • Synthesis of information on the implications of NRF2 in cancer metabolism and progression.

Main Results:

  • NRF2 is a master regulator of cytoprotective genes, essential for cellular stress response.
  • Cancer cells hijack NRF2 pathways to gain a growth advantage and support their metabolic demands.
  • NRF2 activity is crucial for promoting malignant transformation and tumor progression.

Conclusions:

  • NRF2 plays a dual role, protecting normal cells while promoting cancer development and survival.
  • Targeting NRF2-dependent pathways presents a promising strategy for novel cancer therapeutics.
  • Further research into NRF2 regulation and its interaction with cancer pathways is warranted.
Keywords:
Antioxidant pathwayCancerGlutathioneKEAP1NRF2Therapy resistance

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