Inhibiting BTB domain and CNC homolog 1 (Bach1) as an alternative to increase Nrf2 activation in chronic diseases

BTB and CNC homology 1 (Bach1) is a protein that forms nuclear heterodimers with the small musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma (sMaf). These bind to genomic DNA, promoting the inhibition of the synthesis of a range of antioxidant enzymes. This heterodimer antagonises the actions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of cytoprotective responses in the cells. Studies have shown that Nrf2 expression is downregulated and Bach1 expression upregulated in many chronic diseases; hence Nrf2 activators and Bach1 inhibitors need to be investigated for their potential to mitigate inflammation and improve antioxidant responses in the chronic burden of lifestyle diseases, including chronic kidney disease. Thus, this review will discuss the status of Bach1 in such diseases and the use of possible inhibitors as a promising therapeutic approach. [Display omitted] •Nrf2 increases the antioxidant and cytoprotective genes expression;•BTB domain and CNC homolog 1 (Bach1) represses Nrf2 inhibiting the expression of HMOX1 and NQO-1.•Reduction on Bach1 expression might be a potential therapeutic for some diseasome of ageing found in some chronic diseases.•Bach1 inhibitors promote Bach1 nuclear export, increasing the Nrf2 expression.•Bach1 modulators may contribute to mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress in non-communicable diseases.