Nrf2(NF-E2-related factor 2)核因子E2相关因子是一种机体抵抗内界和外界氧化或化学等刺激的中枢调节者。Nrf2-ARE则是近年来新发现的细胞氧化应激反应的关键传导通路,当其在体内被有毒有害物质激活后转位进入细胞核能与抗氧化反应元件(antioxidant response element,ARE)结合形成Nrf2-ARE信号通路,从而调控下游抗氧化蛋白、氧化酶和Ⅱ相解毒酶等。研究发现该通路在抗衰老、抗肿瘤、抗炎症、神经损伤、眼科等多方面均有重要作用。以Nrf2为靶点的药物有望用于肿瘤、糖尿病、神经退行性疾病等。本文综述了Nrf2-ARE信号通路功能及以其为靶点的药物研究的进展。
Nrf2(NF-E2-related factor 2)is a central regulator involved in oxidative or chemical stress of cells.Nrf2-ARE pathway is vital in regulation of cellular oxidative stress response.When it has been activated by detrimental assault,Nrf2 can translocate into nuclei to bind antioxidant response element(ARE)to form Nrf2-ARE signal pathway,which subsequently activates a series of protective genes and proteins including antioxidant protein,oxidase,phaseⅡ detoxifying enzymes,etc.Researches have demonstrated that the pathway is associated with tumor,aging,nervous injury and eye diseases.Drugs targeted on Nrf2 are expected to be used in treatment of several diseases such as tumors,diabetes,neurodegenerative diseases.This article reviews functions of Nrf2-ARE pathway and its relevant drugs.