New insights into the role of nuclear factor-kappaB, a ubiquitous transcription factor in the initiation of diseases.
Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) is a ubiquitous transcription factor that governs the expression of genes encoding cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, cell adhesion molecules, and some acute phase proteins in health and in various disease states. NF-kappaB is activated by several agents, including cytokines, oxidant free radicals, inhaled particles, ultraviolet irradiation, and bacterial or viral products. Inappropriate activation of NF-kappaB has been linked to inflammatory events associated with autoimmune arthritis, asthma, septic shock, lung fibrosis, glomerulonephritis, atherosclerosis, and AIDS. In contrast, complete and persistent inhibition of NF-kappaB has been linked directly to apoptosis, inappropriate immune cell development, and delayed cell growth. Therefore, development of modulatory strategies targeting this transcription factor may provide a novel therapeutic tool for the treatment or prevention of various diseases.
Chen
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Pathology and Physiology Research Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA.lfd32cdc.gov
Castranova
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Shi
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Demers
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D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000502:physiology; D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D016328:NF-kappa B / Q000819:agonists / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D010770:Phosphotransferases / Q000378:metabolism
D016328:NF-kappa B; D010770:Phosphotransferases