NFE2L2 and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: There is limited research on the effects of NRF2 on the malignant progression of HNSCC, which includes NRF2-mediated radiation tolerance and drug resistance 16, 34, 35, activated oncogenic Notch 14 or mTOR signaling 36, and NRF2 activity of as a central node in the maintenance of low ROS levels and stemness properties 19.