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The transcription factor Nrf2 regulates the basal and inducible expression of numerous detoxifying and antioxidant genes. The cytoplasmic protein Keap1 interacts with Nrf2 and represses its function. Analysis of keap1-knockout mice provides solid evidence that Keap1 acts as a negative regulator of Nrf2 and as a sensor of xenobiotic and oxidative stresses. The simultaneous ablation of the keap1 and nrf2 genes reversed all apparent phenotypes of the Keap1-deficient mice, suggesting that Nrf2 is a primary target of Keap1. The Nrf2–Keap1 system is now recognized as one of the major cellular defence mechanisms against oxidative and xenobiotic stresses. Furthermore, extensive studies have suggested that the Nrf2–Keap1 system contributes to protection against various pathologies, including carcinogenesis, liver toxicity, respiratory distress and inflammation.