HMOX1 and autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia: Furthermore, upregulated gene expression of hemopexin in hemin-infused Townes-SS mice (a SCA murine model) prevents microvascular occlusion, increases expression of the protective liver nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) activity, as well as decreases pro-inflammatory NF-κB.