Transcription factor Nrf2 as a potential therapeutic target for COVID-19

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-like coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Critically ill patients with SARS-COV-2 infection frequently exhibit signs of high oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, which accounts for most of the mortality. Antiviral strategies to inhibit the pathogenic consequences of COVID-19 are urgently required. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related transcription factor (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that is involved in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defense in several tissues and cells. This review tries to present an overview of the role of Nrf2 in the treatment of COVID-19.

Automated summary

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, causes COVID-19, a respiratory disease. Severe cases of COVID-19 often lead to high oxidative stress and inflammation, resulting in a high mortality rate. Effective antiviral strategies are urgently needed to mitigate the pathogenic effects of COVID-19. This review provides an overview of the role of Nrf2, a transcription factor involved in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defense, in the treatment of COVID-19.