Heme oxygenase(HO)-1 is an important antioxidant enzyme that plays a pivotal role in cellular adaptation and protection in response to a wide array of noxious stimuli. Thus, HO-1 induction has been associated with prevention or mitigation of pathogenesis of various diseases, including acute inflammation, atherosclerosis, degenerative diseases, and carcinogenesis. Recent progress in our understanding of the function of molecules in the cellular signaling network as key modulators of gene transcription sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlyuing HO-1 gene expression. A panel of redox-sensitive transcription factors such as activator protein-1, nuclear factor-kB, and nuclear factor E2-related factor-2, and some of the upstream kinases have been identified as prime regulators of HO-1 gene induction. This review summarizes molecular mechanisms underlying HO-1 expression and the significance of targeted induction of HO-1 as a potential chemopreventive or chemoprotective strategy.