The diverse and complex roles of NF-κB subunits in cancer

It is only recently that the full importance of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) signalling to cancer development has been understood. Although much attention has focused on the upstream pathways leading to NF-kappa B activation, it is now becoming clear that the inhibitor of NF-kappa B kinases (IKKs), which regulate NF-kappa B activation, have many independent functions in tissue homeostasis and normal immune function that could compromise the clinical utility of IKK inhibitors. Therefore, if the NF-kappa B pathway is to be properly exploited as a target for both anticancer and anti-inflammatory drugs, it is appropriate to reconsider the complex roles of the individual NF-kappa B subunits.