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Nrf2, A Target for Precision Oncology in Cancer Prognosis and Treatment
Hoang Kieu Chi Ngo1, Hoang Le2, Young-Joon Surh1,3
1Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Activating nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), a master regulator of redox homeostasis, has been shown to suppress initiation of carcinogenesis in normal cells. However, this transcription factor has recently been reported to promote proliferation of some transformed or cancerous cells. In tumor cells, Nrf2 is prone to mutations that result in stabilization and concurrent accumulation of its protein product. A hyperactivated mutant form of Nrf2 could support the cancer cells for enhanced proliferation, invasiveness, and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, which are associated with a poor clinical outcome. Hence understanding mutations in Nrf2 would have a significant impact on the prognosis and treatment of cancer in the era of precision medicine. This perspective would provide an insight into the genetic alterations in Nrf2 and suggest the application of small molecules, RNAi, and genome editing technologies, particularly CRISR-Cas9, in therapeutic intervention of cancer in the context of the involvement of Nrf2 mutations.
Insights
Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) mutations can promote cancer cell growth and resistance. Understanding these genetic alterations is crucial for developing targeted cancer therapies in precision medicine.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) is a key regulator of cellular redox homeostasis.
- While Nrf2 typically suppresses cancer initiation in normal cells, it can promote proliferation in transformed cells.
- Mutations in Nrf2 lead to protein stabilization and accumulation in tumor cells, contributing to cancer progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the dual role of Nrf2 in cancer, focusing on the impact of its mutations.
- To highlight the significance of understanding Nrf2 genetic alterations for cancer prognosis and treatment.
- To discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting Nrf2 mutations in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Nrf2 function, mutations, and cancer biology.
- Analysis of the implications of Nrf2 hyperactivation in tumor cells.
- Exploration of therapeutic interventions including small molecules, RNAi, and genome editing.
Main Results:
- Mutant Nrf2 enhances cancer cell proliferation, invasiveness, and resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Nrf2 mutations are associated with poor clinical outcomes in cancer patients.
- Targeting Nrf2 mutations offers a promising avenue for precision cancer medicine.
Conclusions:
- Understanding Nrf2 mutations is critical for advancing precision medicine in oncology.
- Therapeutic strategies like CRISPR-Cas9 targeting Nrf2 present new possibilities for cancer treatment.
- Further research into Nrf2's role in cancer is essential for improving patient prognosis and treatment efficacy.
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