Abstract
BackgroundColorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and is influenced by the interplay of various factors, including a very strong genetic component. For instance, incorrect mitochondrial biogenesis is correlated with increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Thus, it is important to understand the consequences of changes in both the expression and the correct function of the transcription factors that regulate mitochondrial biogenesis, namely NRF2.ObjectivesThe main objective of this paper is to characterise the relationship between NRF2 and colorectal cancer by compiling data from an exhaustive literature search.MethodsInformation was obtained by defining specific search terms and searching in several databases. After a strict selection procedure, data were tabulated and the relationships between articles were assessed by measuring heterogeneity and by constructing conceptual maps.Results and discussionWe found a general consensus in the literature that the presence of oxidizing agents as well as the inhibition of the NRF2 repressor Keap1 maintain NRF2 expression at basal levels. This predominantly exerts a cytoprotective effect on cells and decreases risk of colorectal cancer. However, if NRF2 is inhibited, protection against external agents disappears and risk of colorectal cancer increases. Interestingly, colorectal cancer risk is also increased when NRF2 becomes overexpressed. In this case, the increased risk arises from NRF2-induced inflammation and resistance to chemotherapy.ConclusionThe proper basal function of NRF2 and Keap1 are essential for preventing oncogenic processes in the colon. Consequently, any disruption to the expression of these genes can promote the genesis and progression of colon cancer.
Highlights
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and causes more than half a million deaths per year [1]
The increased risk arises from NRF2induced inflammation and resistance to chemotherapy
The proper basal function of Nuclear Respiratory Factor 2 (NRF2) and Keap1 are essential for preventing oncogenic processes in the colon
Summary
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and causes more than half a million deaths per year [1] This type of cancer is a useful model for studying both carcinogenesis and tumour progression, as colonocytes follow a systematic process of proliferation, differentiation and transformation (adenoma to a carcinoma) [2]. It is important that all genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis are expressed according to a standard pattern This process is highly coordinated and depends on the activity of several key proteins, including Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 (NRF1) and Nuclear Respiratory Factor 2 (NRF2), which regulate the expression of respiratory chain proteins, and act as anti-oxidants [5]. It is important to understand the consequences of changes in both the expression and the correct function of the transcription factors that regulate mitochondrial biogenesis, namely NRF2
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
