Potentiation of cellular defense capacity by phytochemicals activating NF-E2-related factor 2 for the prevention and/or treatment of alzheimer’s disease

Abstract

Increasing number of evidence suggest that nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a pivotal role in cellular endogenous defense against neurotoxic insults via augmentation of numerous neuroprotective genes which wok synergistically in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, we reviewed the current literature investigating the roles and molecular features of Nrf2 in the neuropathogenic process of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis and further discussed the regulator mechanisms of Nrf2 by covering upstream modulators and downstream target proteins. Finally, as a strategy to fortify Nrf2 signaling pathway, we have introduced representative naturally occurring phytochemicals exhibiting neuroprotective potentials by activating Nrf2 in the CNS and enhancing neurohormetic stress response as a promising therapeutic target for the prevention and/or treatment of AD. Collectively, the information will provide a comprehensive understanding for the currently identified roles of Nrf2 in AD and may facilitate the design of non-clinical and clinical research establishing Nrf2 as a therapeutic target.