Nuclear factor-κB as a therapeutic target in critical care medicine

Basilia Zingarelli, Maeve Sheehan, Hector R. Wong

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

182 Scopus citations

Abstract

Nuclear factor-κB is a transcriptional factor required for the gene expression of many inflammatory mediators. Nuclear factor-κB activation requires removal and degradation of its inhibitor κB, an event that occurs after phosphorylation of inhibitor κB by a complex of inhibitor κB kinases. These events allow nuclear factor-κB to translocate into the nucleus, where it binds to κB elements and initiates transcription. Inappropriate and prolonged activation of nuclear factor-κB has been linked to several diseases associated with inflammatory events, including septic shock, acute respiratory distress syndrome, ischemia, and reperfusion injury. Thus, the key role of nuclear factor-κB in regulating inflammation makes this factor a therapeutic target for reducing tissue and organ damage. Regulation and control of nuclear factor-κB can be achieved by gene modification strategies or by pharmacologic inhibition of the key components of the cascade that leads to nuclear factor-κB activation. The purpose of our review is to describe these novel therapeutic approaches and their potential efficacy.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)S105-S111
JournalCritical care medicine
Volume31
Issue number1 SUPPL.
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2003

Keywords

  • Gene therapy
  • Inflammation
  • Inhibitor κBα
  • IκB kinases
  • Nuclear factor-κB inhibitors
  • Sepsis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Nuclear factor-κB as a therapeutic target in critical care medicine'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this