Title:Context-Dependent Regulation of Nrf2/ARE Axis on Vascular Cell Function during Hyperglycemic Condition
Volume: 16
Issue: 8
Author(s): Tharmarajan Ramprasath*, Allen John Freddy, Ganesan Velmurugan , Dhanendra Tomar, Balakrishnan Rekha, Vemparthan Suvekbala and Subbiah Ramasamy*
Affiliation:
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai 625021, Tamil Nadu,India
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai 625021, Tamil Nadu,India
Keywords:
Nrf2/ARE, vascular dysfunction, smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, phase II antioxidant enzymes, oxidative
stress.
Abstract: Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of micro and macrovascular complications.
During hyperglycemic conditions, endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells are exquisitely
sensitive to high glucose. This high glucose-induced sustained reactive oxygen species production
leads to redox imbalance, which is associated with endothelial dysfunction and vascular wall remodeling.
Nrf2, a redox-regulated transcription factor plays a key role in the antioxidant response element
(ARE)-mediated expression of antioxidant genes. Although accumulating data indicate the molecular
mechanisms underpinning the Nrf2 regulated redox balance, understanding the influence of the
Nrf2/ARE axis during hyperglycemic condition on vascular cells is paramount. This review focuses on
the context-dependent role of Nrf2/ARE signaling on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell function
during hyperglycemic conditions. This review also highlights improving the Nrf2 system in vascular
tissues, which could be a potential therapeutic strategy for vascular dysfunction.