The focus of the described research in this thesis is on the oxidative stress response (Nrf2 pathway). The aim of the research presented in this thesis is to obtain more information concerning... Show moreThe focus of the described research in this thesis is on the oxidative stress response (Nrf2 pathway). The aim of the research presented in this thesis is to obtain more information concerning microRNAs which are involved in the Nrf2 pathway, to determine and evaluate the application of microRNAs for the construction of novel mechanistic biomarkers. Furthermore, we aimed to obtain a better understandingwith respect to the dynamics of the Nrf2 pathway to repeated xenobiotic exposure.To investigate the effect of overexpression of microRNAs on the Nrf2 pathway response in general and in combination with chemical exposure, a microRNA mimic screen was performed. In this screen overexpression of microRNAs was induced by using synthetic microRNA mimics. Since repeated exposure may drive adaptation programs and may lead to different responses between single and repeated exposures. The effect of a second exposure on the dynamics of the Nrf2 pathway activation was conducted. Final, results of a study are shown where a panel of structurally different phenolic compounds were used to demonstrate the proof-of-concept that Nrf2 pathway reporters can successfully be applied as biomarkers to characterize the specific pro-oxidant responses of chemicals. Show less
