📡
Signal Transduction
Metazoans
NF-κB Pathway
Master regulator of inflammation, immunity, and cell survival.
Overview
NF-κB transcription factors are held inactive in the cytoplasm by IκB inhibitor proteins. Stimulation by TNF, IL-1, LPS, or other signals activates the IKK complex, which phosphorylates IκB, leading to its ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Free NF-κB dimers (typically p65/p50) translocate to the nucleus and activate genes for cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, and anti-apoptotic proteins.
Cellular Location
Cytoplasm → Nucleus
Clinical Significance
Central to inflammatory and immune responses; constitutive activation linked to chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer.