NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Category: pathway

A master regulator of inflammation and immune response. Constitutive activation is linked to neuroinflammation, cancer progression, and autoimmunity.

Mechanism Detail

NF-κB is a transcription factor normally sequestered in the cytoplasm by IκB inhibitors. Upon activation (by TNF-α, IL-1β, LPS), IκB is phosphorylated and degraded, allowing NF-κB nuclear translocation and transcription of pro-inflammatory genes (COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6). Chronic activation drives neuroinflammation and tumor-promoting inflammation.

Clinical Status

Multiple NF-κB inhibitors in development. Natural inhibitors (curcumin, resveratrol, omega-3 fatty acids) are studied as modulators. Direct pharmaceutical inhibition is challenging due to immune function side effects.

Relevant Diseases

Relevant Therapies

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