Artesunate activates Nrf2 pathway-driven anti-inflammatory potential through ERK signaling in microglial BV2 cells

► Artesunate is a semi-synthetic derivative of anti-malarial agent artemisinin. ► We evaluate the effect of artesunate on inflammatory responses in microglial cells. ► Artesunate inhibits LPS-stimulated inflammatory responses in microglial BV2 cells. ► Artesunate activates the Nrf2/ARE pathway and upregulates HO-1 via ERK activation.