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Nrf2 Pathway

Meaning

The Nrf2 Pathway, or Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway, is the master regulator of the cellular antioxidant response, responsible for upregulating the expression of numerous cytoprotective and detoxification genes. When activated by oxidative stress or electrophilic compounds, Nrf2 translocates to the nucleus to initiate transcription of phase II enzymes and antioxidant proteins. Maintaining robust Nrf2 signaling is paramount for protecting endocrine tissues, such as the ovaries and testes, from damage induced by reactive oxygen species associated with metabolic strain. This pathway is fundamental to cellular resilience.