Fig. 1

Schematic depiction of the induction and functions of the Nrf2-NQO1 pathway in physiological conditions. In a steady-state condition, erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is sequestered within the cytosol by the repressor protein Kelch-like ECH-associated protein1 (KEAP1). This is crucial for KEAP1 to remain unaffected by external factors, preserving its original conformation. This stability ensures the natural degradation of Nrf2 and prevents Nrf2 from entering the nucleus and binding to the antioxidant response element (ARE). This process avoids the forming of heterodimers with small MAF proteins and activating the antioxidant genes. Maintaining the stability of this pathway relies on preventing Nrf2 from entering the nucleus and enabling its natural degradation within the cell [1,2,3, 91]