NFκB-dependent signaling pathways

The transcription factor NFKB is activated by numerous stimuli. Once NFKB is fully activated, it participates in the regulation of various target genes in different cells to exert its biological functions. NFKB has often been referred to as a central mediator of the immune response, since a large variety of bacteria and viruses can lead to the activation Of NFKB, which in turn controls the expression of many inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, immune receptors, and cell surface adhesion molecules. Recent studies have shown that NFKB may function more generally as a central regulator of stress responses, since different stressful conditions, including physical stress, oxidative stress, and exposure to certain chemicals, also lead to NFKB activation. Furthermore, NFKB blocks cell apoptosis in several cell types. Taken together, these findings make it clear that NFKB plays an important role in cell proliferation and differentiation. It is the intention of this review to cover the various NFKB-dependent signaling pathways, thereby to achieve a better understanding of the mechanisms of NFKB activation and the physiological functions of activated NFKB. (C) 2002 International Society for Experimental Hematology. Published by Elsevier Science Inc.