The Nrf2 transcription factor: A multifaceted regulator of the extracellular matrix

Hiebert, Paul

Abstract

The transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is widely recognized as a master regulator of the cellular stress response by facilitating the transcription of cytoprotective genes. As such, the Nrf2 pathway is critical in guarding the cell from the harmful effects of excessive reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) and in maintaining cellular redox balance. While excessive ROS/RNS are harmful to the cell, physiological levels of ROS/RNS play important roles in regulating numerous signaling pathways important for normal cellular function, including the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM). Recent advances have underscored the importance of ROS/RNS, and by extension, factors that influence redox-balance such as Nrf2, in regulating ECM production and deposition. In addition to reducing the oxidative burden in the cell, the discovery that Nrf2 can also directly target genes that regulate and form the ECM has cemented it as a multifaceted player in the regulation of ECM proteins, and provides new insight into its potential usefulness as a target for treating ECM-related pathologies.

Citation

Hiebert, P. (2021). The Nrf2 transcription factor: A multifaceted regulator of the extracellular matrix. Matrix Biology Plus, 10, Article 100057. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100057

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Jan 13, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Feb 20, 2021
• Publication Date: Jun 1, 2021
• Deposit Date: Feb 20, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 20, 2024
• Journal: Matrix Biology Plus
• Electronic ISSN: 2590-0285
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 10
• Article Number: 100057
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100057
• Keywords: Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2); Matrisome; Extracellular matrix; Reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS); Tissue repair; Senescence
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4554025