Dysregulation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in cancer

Abstract

Accumulating evidence suggests that dysregulation of the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway resulting in constitutively active Nrf2 and increased expression of cytoprotective Nrf2 target genes, has a pivotal role in cancer. Cancer cells are able to hijack the Keap1-Nrf2 system via multiple mechanisms leading to enhanced chemo- and radio-resistance and proliferation via metabolic reprogramming as well as inhibition of apoptosis. In this mini-review, we will describe the mechanisms leading to increased Nrf2 activity in cancer with a focus on the information achieved from large-scale multi-omics projects across various cancer types.

Keywords: Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1); The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA); cancer; genome; nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2); oxidative stress.