Figure 2
From: Inflammatory mechanisms in ischemic stroke: therapeutic approaches
Nuclear erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf2) anti-oxidant signaling in acute ischemic stroke. Nrf2 is the principal transcription factor that regulates antioxidant response element (ARE)-mediated expression of phase II detoxifying antioxidant enzymes. Under normal conditions, Nrf2 is sequestered in the cytoplasm by an actin-binding (Kelch-like) protein (Keap1); on exposure of cells to oxidative stress, Nrf2 dissociates from Keap1, translocates into the nucleus, binds to ARE, and transactivates phase II detoxifying and antioxidant genes. Among the spectrum of antioxidant genes controlled by Nrf2 are catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase.