Nrf2 Proteins and Enzymes

NF-E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a member of the cap 'n collar family of basic leucine zipper transcription factors. By binding antioxidant response elements (AREs), Nrf2 activates the transcription of genes encoding antioxidant and phase II drug-metabolizing enzymes needed to protect cells against oxidative damage. Transcriptional targets regulated by Nrf2 include genes encoding glutathione S-transferases, superoxide dismutase-1, and heme oxygenase-1.