Thioredoxin as a Therapeutic Target in Cerebral Ischemia

BACKGROUND: Cerebral ischemia is a common cause of disability and death. Ischemic brain injury results from complex pathological processes, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Thioredoxin( Trx) is an important multifunctional protein, which regulates cellular redox status. Increasing studies have demonstrated that Trx provides a neuroprotective role against cerebral ischemia-induced injury. METHODS: A systematic search of PMC and the PubMed Database was conducted to summarize the protective effects of Trx against cerebral ischemia. RESULTS: This article reviews the understanding of potential effects and mechanisms of Trx against cerebral ischemia, including the anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as the activation of prosurvival pathway. We also summarize that some natural compounds induce the expression of Trx, which is involved in their anti-ischemic effects. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, Trx has a potential neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia and may be very promising for clinical therapy of ischemic stroke in the future.