Control of NF-κB and Inflammation by the Unfolded Protein Response

Under inflammatory situations, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress occurs at local sites and modulates inflammatory processes. NF-kappa B is a key regulator for immune and inflammatory responses, and its activity is influenced by ER stress positively or negatively. Recent investigation suggested that ER stress induces activation of NF-kappa B in the early phase, whereas in the later phase, consequent unfolded protein response (UPR) inhibits NF-kappa B. This review summarizes current knowledge on potential mechanisms underlying the biphasic, bidirectional regulation of NF-kappa B by the UPR and possible roles for ER stress in the regulation of inflammation.