What is NRF2?

NRF2 (Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2–Related Factor 2) is a transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in regulating the expression of various detoxifying and antioxidant genes. It binds to specific sequences in the DNA, turning them on or off, which helps in managing oxidative stress and detoxifying harmful substances such as airborne carcinogens like benzene 1. NRF2 is expressed in various cells throughout the body, including neurons, lungs, liver, and plasma cells, providing protection against oxidative stress and DNA damage 2.

NRF2 can be activated by certain compounds found in foods, such as sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts. This activation leads to enhanced detoxification processes, helping the body to excrete harmful substances more efficiently 1 3.