Oxidative Stress and Nrf2 Signaling Role in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Double-Edged Sword

Ashraf Ullah Khan1, Adnan Khan2, Bushra Shal2

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, City University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

Biology of the Cell
|July 2, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Oxidative stress impacts oral cancer. The Keap1/Nrf2 pathway has a dual role, promoting cancer progression and treatment resistance, but also offering therapeutic potential for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Signaling

Background:

  • Oxidative stress is implicated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) development and progression.
  • The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway regulates antioxidant defense.
  • Nrf2 activation is crucial for cellular protection under stress.

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