Sulforaphane Prevents Microcystin-LR-Induced Oxidative Damage and Apoptosis in BALB/c Mice

摘要

@@Microcystins (MCs), the products of blooming algae Microcystis, are waterborne environmental toxins that have been implicated in the development of liver cancer, necrosis, and even fatal intrahepatic bleeding. Alternative protective approaches in addition to complete removal of MCs in drinking water are urgently needed. Our recent studies announced the underlying mechanisms of promoting liver cell proliferation at low doses by MC-LR exposure. We found MC-LR could activate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a protective antioxidant response against various environmental toxicants, and MC-LR-induced up-regulation of Nrf2 in cells promotes liver cell growth (Gan et al., 2010). Based on this result, we hypothesized that Nrf2 activator could prevent MC-LR induced cell cytotoxicity.