Transcription factor Nrf2 maintains the basal expression of Mdm2: An implication of the regulation of p53 signaling by Nrf2

► We demonstrate that the expression of Mdm2 is diminished in nrf2-deleted MEFs. ► Nrf2 directly involves in the regulation of the basal expression of Mdm2 through the antioxidant response element. ► p53 protein was accumulated in nrf2-deleted MEFs. ► In human ovarian cancer cells, Nrf2 inhibition by shRNA increased p53 signaling to enhance cell death in response to hydrogen peroxide treatment.