NRF2 as an Emerging Therapeutic Target

The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (NRF2) is the master regulator of the basal and inducible expression of a large network of cytoprotective genes. As a result, NRF2 plays a key role in antagonising a range of pathological insults including reactive oxygen species and toxic xenobiotics [1]. Consistent with this, dysregulation of NRF2 signalling is associated with an increased susceptibility to and/or accelerated progression of a range of experimental diseases in mice. In recent years, NRF2 has shown promise as a novel therapeutic target in human diseases, particularly those with underlying oxidative and inflammatory stress components [2]. Indeed, several NRF2 inducers have recently entered the clinic and a number of pharmaceutical companies have NRF2-based programs. The goal of this special issue is to highlight the promise of NRF2 as a novel therapeutic target in a number of disease settings and in turn foster further research in this burgeoning field