In one study, the authors considered that the transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) might affect macrophage activation and thereby influence DKD by constructing db/db Nrf2 knockout (KO) mice and detecting the expression of the macrophage's marker CD36 in diabetic patients45. The gene discussed is NFE2L2; the disease is diabetic kidney disease.