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Published on: August 4, 2019

Integrated Role of NRF2 and p53 Gene Expression in Hormonal and Biochemical Dysregulation Among Infertile Males

Aswathy Sundaresh1, J S Jiju2, Arun William3

  • 1Associate Professor, Medical Biochemistry, Sree Gokulam Medical College & Research Foundation, Venjaramoodu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.

JBRA Assisted Reproduction
|June 22, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Male infertility involves oxidative stress and apoptosis, linked to NRF2 and p53 gene dysregulation. This study highlights their combined role and potential as biomarkers for male infertility diagnosis and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Molecular Endocrinology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Male infertility is multifactorial, with oxidative stress and apoptosis implicated.
  • NRF2 (antioxidant defense) and p53 (cell cycle/apoptosis) are key regulators.
  • Their combined role in male infertility is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the integrated expression of NRF2 and p53 genes in infertile males.
  • To assess the association of NRF2 and p53 with hormonal, inflammatory, and biochemical markers.
  • To explore their potential as diagnostic biomarkers for male infertility.

Main Methods:

  • Case-control study with 150 infertile males and 150 fertile controls.
  • Gene expression analysis (NRF2, p53) via RT-PCR.
  • Measurement of hormonal (FSH, testosterone, estradiol), inflammatory (IL-6), and biochemical (SOD, PSA) markers using ELISA.

Main Results:

  • Infertile men exhibited reduced NRF2 and SOD, with increased FSH, estradiol, IL-6, PSA, and p53 expression (p<0.001).
  • FSH and NRF2 were identified as strong infertility predictors.
  • IL-6 and PSA positively predicted p53 expression; SOD correlated with NRF2.

Conclusions:

  • Dysregulation of NRF2 and p53, influenced by oxidative, hormonal, and inflammatory factors, is critical in male infertility.
  • NRF2 and p53 show promise as diagnostic biomarkers.
  • These genes represent potential therapeutic targets for male infertility.
Keywords:
NRF2biochemical markersgene expressionhormonal imbalancemale infertilityoxidative stressp53

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