Transcription Factor Nrf2 as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Prevention of Cytokine Storm in COVID-19 Patients
Roman A. Zinovkin, О. А. Гребенчиков
Abstract
Nrf2 is a key transcription factor responsible for antioxidant defense in many tissues and cells, including alveolar epithelium, endothelium, and macrophages. Furthermore, Nrf2 functions as a transcriptional repressor that inhibits expression of the inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. Critically ill patients with COVID-19 infection often present signs of high oxidative stress and systemic inflammation - the leading causes of mortality. This article suggests rationale for the use of Nrf2 inducers to prevent development of an excessive inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients.
Topics & Concepts
Cytokine stormCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakTranscription factorCytokineMedicineVirologyImmunologyBiologyInternal medicineGeneticsInfectious disease (medical specialty)DiseaseOutbreakGeneGenomics, phytochemicals, and oxidative stressIL-33, ST2, and ILC PathwaysTryptophan and brain disorders