Physiological normoxia alters the redox phenotype in human endothelial cells.
Induction of selected Nrf2 target genes, HO-1 and NQO1, is attenuated under 5% O2.
Diminished HO-1 induction is stimulus independent and reversible on readaptation to air.
Bach1 mRNA and protein expression are elevated in cells adapted to 5% O2.
Glutathione synthesis related genes are Bach1 and oxygen insensitive.
Nrf2 confers vascular protection via GCLM and the xCT under physiological normoxia.