NF-κB regulation: the nuclear response

Introduction Activation of NF-B-kappa Regulators of NF-B-kappa activation Nuclear regulation of NF-kappa B B cell lymphoma 3 (Bcl-3) I kappa B-zeta UXT, ZAS3 and PDLIM2 Post-translational modification of NF-B-kappa complex in the nucleus Phosphorylation Acetylation and Deacetylation Sumoylation Nuclear regulators of NF-kappa B: potential molecular chaperones Conclusion Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappa B) is an inducible transcription factor that tightly regulates the expression of a large cohort of genes. As a key component of the cellular machinery NF-kappa B is involved in a wide range of biological processes including innate and adaptive immunity, inflammation, cellular stress responses, cell adhesion, apoptosis and proliferation. Appropriate regulation of NF-kappa B is critical for the proper function and survival of the cell. Aberrant NF-kappa B activity has now been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases ranging from inflammatory bowel disease to autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Systems governing NF-kappa B activity are complex and there is an increased understanding of the importance of nuclear events in regulating NF-kappa B's activities as a transcription factor. A number of novel nuclear regulators of NF-kappa B such as I kappa B-zeta and PDZ and LIM domain 2 (PDLIM2) have now been identified, adding another layer to the mechanics of NF-kappa B regulation. Further insight into the functions of these molecules raises the prospect for better understanding and rational design of therapeutics for several important diseases.