In the case of protecting against adverse effects of DOX, protective compounds induce Nrf2 signaling and its downstream targets such as HO-1 and NQO1 in reinforcing antioxidant defense systems and supporting against oxidative damage, while anti-tumor compounds inhibit Nrf2 signaling in promoting ROS levels and oxidative damage, resulting in cell death in cancer cells. This evidence concerns the gene HMOX1 and neoplasm.