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Modulation of Nrf2 expression by targeting i-motif DNA

E F Warner1, D Guneri2, M A O'Connell1

  • 1School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk, UK.

Communications Chemistry
|January 6, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Researchers identified a DNA structure in the Nrf2 gene promoter. Small molecules targeting this structure can control Nrf2 expression, offering new strategies for cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) is crucial for cellular detoxification and chemoresistance in cancer.
  • While Nrf2 inducers are known, inhibitors are rare, creating a need for novel regulatory strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate an i-motif DNA structure downstream of the Nrf2 promoter as a potential regulatory element.
  • To identify small molecules that interact with the Nrf2 i-motif and modulate Nrf2 expression.

Main Methods:

  • Characterization of a stable i-motif DNA structure near the Nrf2 gene promoter under physiological conditions.
  • Screening for small molecule ligands that bind to the identified i-motif structure.
  • Assessing the impact of these ligands on Nrf2 mRNA expression in human cancer cells.

Main Results:

  • The Nrf2 i-motif structure was confirmed to be stable under near-physiological conditions.
  • Small molecule ligands targeting the i-motif were identified.
  • One ligand significantly upregulated Nrf2 mRNA, while another reduced it in human cancer cells.

Conclusions:

  • This study demonstrates the first instance of controlling Nrf2 gene expression by targeting DNA structures within its promoter region.
  • Targeting the Nrf2 i-motif with small molecules presents a novel therapeutic approach to enhance cancer treatment responsiveness.

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