Quinone Derivatives as Nrf2 Activators: Antioxidant Effects, Therapeutic Potential, and Toxicity

Quinone derivatives are redox-modulating scaffolds with notable antioxidant properties. Quinones are naturally occurring and synthetic conjugated cyclic diketones. Owing to their structural and chemical diversity, quinones possess diverse biological and pharmacological properties, including redox signaling, oxidative stress reduction, and modulation of redox cycling. They activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) signaling pathway, a transcription factor responsible for cellular antioxidant defenses via their electrophilic interactions with cysteine residues in Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) and consequent nuclear translocation of NRF2. They also scavenge free radicals. The ability to scavenge free radicals and modulate the NRF2 signaling pathway makes quinone derivatives therapeutic molecules in oxidative stress-mediated diseases. However, excessive exposure to quinones has been linked to toxicity and pro-oxidant consequences. Therefore, regulating quinone concentration is required to address toxicological issues. Despite their structural and functional diversity, structural adjustments for some quinones based on structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis will be necessary to enhance their toxicological profile and therapeutic effects. Additionally, strategies such as controlled dosing and targeted delivery systems can be employed to address toxicological concerns and enhance the therapeutic potential of quinone derivatives. The current review provides comprehensive information on the NRF2-inducing activity, radical scavenging activity, therapeutic potential, and toxicological profile of quinone derivatives as redox-modulating agents.