| abilities; CSCs are considered as the main cells which are responsible for tumor metastasis, cancer
recurrence, and chemo/radio-resistance. CSCs are believed to contain low mitochondria in quantity, high
concentration of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and low reactive oxygen species (ROS)
levels. Mitochondria regulate certain cellular functions, including controlling of cellular energetics, calcium
signaling, cell growth and cell differentiation, cell cycle regulation, and cell death. Also, mitochondria
are the main sources of intrinsic ROS production. Dysfunction of CSCs mitochondria due to
oxidative phosphorylation is reported in several pathological conditions, including metabolic disorders,
age-related diseases, and various types of cancers. ROS levels play a significant role in cellular signal
transduction and CSCs’ identity and differentiation capability. Nrf2 is a master transcription factor that
plays critical functions in maintaining cellular redox hemostasis by regulating several antioxidant and
detoxification pathways. Recently, the critical function of Nrf2 in CSCs has been revealed by several
studies. Nrf2 is an essential molecule in the maintenance of CSCs’ stemness and self-renewal in response
to different oxidative stresses such as chemotherapy-induced elevation of ROS. Nrf2 enables these cells to
recover from chemotherapy damages, and promotes establishment of invasion and dissemination. In this
study, we have summarized the role of Nrf2 and mitochondria function CSCs, which promote cancer
development. The significant role of Nrf2 in the regulation of mitochondrial function and ROS levels
suggests this molecule as a potential target to eradicate CSCs. |