Nuclear Factor (Erythroid-Derived 2)-Like 2 and Thioredoxin-1 in Atherosclerosis and Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in the Heart

Significance: Redox signaling is one of the key elements involved in cardiovascular diseases. Two important molecules are the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the oxidoreductase thioredoxin-1 (Trx-1). Recent Advances: During the previous years, a lot of studies investigated Nrf2 and Trx-1 as protective proteins in cardiovascular disorders. Moreover, post-translational modifications of those molecules were identified that play an important role in the cardiovascular system. This review will summarize changes in the vasculature in atherosclerosis and ischemia reperfusion injury of the heart and the newest findings achieved with Nrf2 and Trx1 therein. Interestingly, Nrf2 and Trx-1 can act together as well as independently of each other in protection against atherosclerosis and ischemia and reperfusion injury. Critical Issues: In principle, pharmacological activation of a transcription factor-like Nrf2 can be dangerous, since a transcription regulator has multiple targets and the pleiotropic effects of such activation should not be ignored. Moreover, overactivation of Nrf2 as well as long-term treatment with Trx-1 could be deleterious for the cardiovascular system. Future Directions: Therefore, the length of treatment with Nrf2 activators and/or Trx-1 has first to be studied in more detail in cardiovascular disorders. Moreover, a combination of Nrf2 activators and Trx-1 should be investigated and taken into consideration.