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Role of NRF2 in Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Jiaxiang Li1, Dan Wang1, Yifei Liu2

  • 1School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, 418442Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei, China.

Technology in Cancer Research & Treatment
|December 8, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) shows dual roles in colorectal cancer (CRC). Activating NRF2 may prevent CRC, but its overexpression can promote tumor growth and drug resistance, suggesting inhibition as a treatment strategy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a key regulator in cellular defense mechanisms.
  • NRF2 plays a complex role in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression.
  • Natural compounds targeting NRF2 are explored for CRC prevention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current research on NRF2's multifaceted role in colorectal cancer.
  • To explore the dual effects of NRF2 activation and inhibition in CRC.
  • To provide insights for novel CRC therapeutic strategies targeting the NRF2 pathway.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating NRF2 in colorectal cancer.
  • Analysis of NRF2's involvement in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in CRC cells.
  • Examination of NRF2's impact on CRC cell proliferation and drug resistance.

Main Results:

  • NRF2 activation by natural compounds can inhibit CRC by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Overexpression of NRF2 can promote CRC growth and confer resistance to chemotherapy (e.g., 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin).
  • The dual role of NRF2 suggests context-dependent therapeutic strategies.

Conclusions:

  • NRF2 signaling pathway presents a promising target for CRC intervention.
  • Both activation and inhibition of NRF2 may be beneficial depending on the specific CRC context.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate NRF2's role and optimize therapeutic approaches for CRC.
Keywords:
colorectal cancerinflammatory-associated colorectal cancernuclear factor E2-related factor 2preventiontreatment

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