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Published on: March 3, 2023
Role of NRF2 in Lung Cancer
Miriam Sánchez-Ortega1, Ana Clara Carrera1, Antonio Garrido1
1Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, E-28049 Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
The gene expression program induced by NRF2 transcription factor plays a critical role in cell defense responses against a broad variety of cellular stresses, most importantly oxidative stress. NRF2 stability is fine-tuned regulated by KEAP1, which drives its degradation in the absence of oxidative stress. In the context of cancer, NRF2 cytoprotective functions were initially linked to anti-oncogenic properties. However, in the last few decades, growing evidence indicates that NRF2 acts as a tumor driver, inducing metastasis and resistance to chemotherapy. Constitutive activation of NRF2 has been found to be frequent in several tumors, including some lung cancer sub-types and it has been associated to the maintenance of a malignant cell phenotype. This apparently contradictory effect of the NRF2/KEAP1 signaling pathway in cancer (cell protection against cancer versus pro-tumoral properties) has generated a great controversy about its functions in this disease. In this review, we will describe the molecular mechanism regulating this signaling pathway in physiological conditions and summarize the most important findings related to the role of NRF2/KEAP1 in lung cancer. The focus will be placed on NRF2 activation mechanisms, the implication of those in lung cancer progression and current therapeutic strategies directed at blocking NRF2 action.
Insights
The NRF2-KEAP1 pathway protects cells from stress but can drive lung cancer progression and chemotherapy resistance. Targeting NRF2 offers potential therapeutic strategies for these tumors.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Stress Response
- Oncology
Background:
- The NRF2 transcription factor regulates cellular defense against oxidative stress.
- KEAP1 protein controls NRF2 stability, targeting it for degradation under normal conditions.
- Initially viewed as anti-cancer, NRF2 now shows pro-tumoral roles in metastasis and chemoresistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms of the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway in physiology.
- To summarize NRF2/KEAP1's role in lung cancer development and progression.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting NRF2 in lung cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of NRF2/KEAP1 signaling.
- Analysis of NRF2 activation mechanisms in cancer.
- Summary of therapeutic interventions targeting NRF2.
Main Results:
- NRF2 activation is frequent in lung cancers, promoting malignant phenotypes.
- The dual role of NRF2 (cytoprotective vs. pro-tumoral) creates controversy in cancer research.
- NRF2 contributes to lung cancer metastasis and resistance to treatments.
Conclusions:
- The NRF2/KEAP1 pathway has complex, context-dependent roles in lung cancer.
- Understanding NRF2 activation is crucial for developing effective lung cancer therapies.
- Targeting NRF2 represents a promising therapeutic avenue for lung cancer treatment.
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