KEAP1-NRF2-IKKβ crosstalk protects periodontal ligament fibroblasts subjected to mechanical vibratory forces.

Objectives: When cells experience acute trauma from forces, cytoprotective molecules such as NRF2 and activation of inflammatory pathways led by NFkB are synthesized and released. An action-binding protein, KEAP1, plays a central role in these activities. The present study aimed to determine the effect of differential magnitudes of vibratory mechanical force application on the KEAP1 molecule and its downstream regulators, such as NRF2 and IKKβ.