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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Human Health Effects Reproductive & Development Sign in to save

Role of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Ovarian Aging: Potential Mechanism and Protective Strategies

International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2023 36 citations ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count. Score: 60 ? 0–100 AI score estimating relevance to the microplastics field. Papers below 30 are filtered from public browse.
Xiaofan Gao, Bo Wang, Yuting Li, Yibao Huang, Yibao Huang, Meng Wu, Meng Wu, Meng Wu, Meng Wu, Yuting Li, Yinuo Li, Xiaoran Zhu, Xiaoran Zhu, Mingfu Wu

Summary

This review explores how the Nrf2 signaling pathway, a key defense system against oxidative stress, plays a role in ovarian aging, which leads to menopause, reduced fertility, and health risks like osteoporosis. While not focused on microplastics specifically, the Nrf2 pathway is one of the main systems that microplastics disrupt when they accumulate in reproductive tissues. Understanding this pathway helps explain how environmental pollutants like microplastics could accelerate ovarian aging and harm fertility.

The ovary holds a significant role as a reproductive endocrine organ in women, and its aging process bears implications such as menopause, decreased fertility, and long-term health risks including osteoporosis, cardiovascular disorders, and cognitive decline. The phenomenon of oxidative stress is tightly linked to the aging metabolic processes. More and more studies have demonstrated that oxidative stress impacts both physiologic and pathologic ovarian aging, and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway plays a crucial role in regulating the antioxidant response. Furthermore, various therapeutic approaches have been identified to ameliorate ovarian aging by modulating the Nrf2 pathway. This review summarizes the important role of the Nrf2/ Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) signaling pathway in regulating oxidative stress and influencing ovarian aging. Additionally, it highlights the therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway.

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