HepG2 cells were transfected with antisense NPM (pCMV/ASNPM) or empty vector (pCMV) along with MnSOD promoter-and enhancer-driven luciferase reporter vectors. After 12 h of co-transfection, cells were washed, grown for 24 h, and then treated with PMA and cytokines for 12 h, after which cells were again washed. Cell lysates were collected, and the luciferase activity was measured as a determinant of MnSOD gene transcription. Each data point represents the mean of three independent experiments ± S.D. Significant difference from corresponding control: **, p < 0.01. Significant difference from corresponding treatment group: #, p < 0.01.