We have shown that Nrf2 induces radiation resistance in ESCC cells in vitro and in vivo by directly interacting with CaMKIIα and then triggers autophagy, which is associated with reduction in phosphorylated mTOR and p62, activation of Beclin 1, and transformation of LC3-I to LC3-II. This evidence concerns the gene CAMK2A and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.