Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB): A new potential therapeutic target in atherosclerosis?

Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated b cells (nf-κb) is a crucial transcription factor that participates in a number of physiological and pathological conditions,including immune response,apoptosis,carcinogenesis and inflammatory processes. it is involved in the rapid response to various stimuli such as viral and bacterial infections,shear stress,oxidant stress and a number of cytokines. in the pathology of atherosclerosis nf-κb is essential to the cross-talk between cytokines,adhesion molecules and growth factors,leading to atherosclerotic plaque formation,growth and eventual rupture. the intent of this paper is to gather and summarize information on the role of nf-κb in the pathology of atherosclerosis. additionally,pharmacological intervention in the signaling of nf-κb is addressed along with the potential benefits and disadvantages of nf-κb modulating treatment. copyright © 2010 by institute of pharmacology polish academy of sciences.