The Nrf2-Keap1/ARE signaling pathway in aquatic animals

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Aquatic Biology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Aquatic ecosystems are dynamic, exposing organisms to environmental stressors and toxic substances.
• Oxidative stress arises from disrupted redox balance, triggering cellular defense mechanisms.
• The Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) pathway is a key intracellular defense.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the regulatory roles of the Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway in aquatic organism oxidative stress.
• To analyze the molecular structures of Nrf2, Keap1, and ARE within this context.
• To provide insights into the physiological regulation of antioxidant defenses in aquatic life.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on the Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway.
• Analysis of molecular structures of key pathway components (Nrf2, Keap1, ARE).
• Focus on studies pertaining to aquatic organisms and their responses to oxidative stress.

Main Results:

• The Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway is vital for aquatic organisms to combat oxidative stress induced by environmental factors.
• Nrf2 translocation to the nucleus activates antioxidant gene transcription, mitigating reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage.
• While well-studied in mammals, the Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway's role in aquatic organisms remains less explored.

Conclusions:

• The Nrf2-Keap1/ARE pathway is a critical regulator of antioxidant defense in aquatic organisms.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate this pathway's mechanisms and implications in diverse aquatic species.
• Understanding this pathway can inform strategies for protecting aquatic ecosystems from oxidative stress.