Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a redox-sensitive transcription factor

which plays an important role in oxidative stress and tissue injury associated with inflammation. Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) is a negative regulatory factor of Nrf2. After stimulated with the external oxidation stress factors or nucleophilic materials

Nrf2 dissociates from Keap1

and then enters into the cell nucleus

interacting with antioxidant responsive element (ARE) to initiate gene transcription which regulated by ARE. The Nrf2-ARE pathway is by far the most important endogenous antioxidant stress pathway. Recent studies showed that there is a close relationship between diabetes and oxidative stress. This paper focused on the newest research on Nrf2 and diabetes.