NM-aFGF could further activate the AKT/GSK-3β1/Nrf-2 signaling pathway by activating AKT, inhibiting GSK-3β1 as well as upregulating Nrf2, NOQ1 and SOD2 (Figure 8), ultimately exerting myocardium protective effects against oxidative stress in DM rats. The gene discussed is SOD2; the disease is diabetes mellitus.