NF-kappa-B Inhibitor Alpha (NFKBIA), also known as IκBα, is a crucial protein in the regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. This pathway plays a significant role in various cellular processes, including inflammation, immune response, and cell survival. The human recombinant form of NFKBIA is a synthesized version of the naturally occurring protein, used extensively in research and therapeutic applications.
NFKBIA is part of the IκB family of proteins, which are inhibitors of the NF-κB transcription factors. The NF-κB family includes several proteins that form various dimers, which are involved in the regulation of genes responsible for immune and inflammatory responses. IκBα binds to NF-κB dimers, sequestering them in the cytoplasm and preventing their translocation to the nucleus, where they would otherwise activate target genes.
Under normal conditions, IκBα binds to NF-κB dimers, masking their nuclear localization signals and keeping them inactive in the cytoplasm. Upon stimulation by various signals such as cytokines, stress, or pathogens, IκBα is phosphorylated by the IκB kinase (IKK) complex. This phosphorylation marks IκBα for ubiquitination and subsequent degradation by the proteasome. The degradation of IκBα releases NF-κB dimers, allowing them to translocate to the nucleus and activate the transcription of target genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses .
The NF-κB pathway is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system and the regulation of inflammatory responses. Dysregulation of this pathway has been implicated in various diseases, including chronic inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. NFKBIA, as a key regulator of this pathway, plays a critical role in maintaining the balance between activation and inhibition of NF-κB signaling.
The human recombinant form of NFKBIA is used in research to study the NF-κB signaling pathway and its role in various diseases. It is also being explored as a potential therapeutic agent for conditions where NF-κB signaling is dysregulated. For example, inhibiting NF-κB activity through the use of recombinant NFKBIA could potentially reduce inflammation and improve outcomes in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease .