Novel therapeutic strategy: Nrf2 activation in targeting senescence-related changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

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Key findings

• Activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) significantly reduces the accumulation of senescent bronchial epithelial cells in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) models.

• Nrf2 activation improves lung function, reduces inflammation, and decreases lung tissue damage in COPD mouse models.

What is known and what is new?

• It is known that cell senescence contributes to the progression of COPD by promoting inflammation and tissue remodeling.

• This study adds new evidence showing that Nrf2 activation can effectively suppress the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and mitigate COPD progression, which suggests a novel therapeutic target.

What is the implication, and what should change now?

• The findings imply that Nrf2 activators could be a promising therapeutic strategy for COPD, focusing on reducing cellular senescence and inflammation.

• Future research should explore the clinical application of Nrf2 activators in COPD patients and investigate the optimal dosage and treatment duration for maximum therapeutic benefit.

Publication: Jin F, Lin H, Pan S. Novel therapeutic strategy: Nrf2 activation in targeting senescence-related changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. J Thorac Dis 2025;17(2):623-640. doi: 10.21037/jtd-24-710