Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is a protein complex that controls the transcription of DNA, cytokine production, and cell survival. It plays a crucial role in regulating the immune response to infection. However, its dysregulation has been linked to various chronic diseases, including cancer, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases .
The NF-κB pathway is activated by various stimuli, including stress, cytokines, free radicals, ultraviolet irradiation, and bacterial or viral antigens. Upon activation, NF-κB translocates to the nucleus and binds to specific sequences in the DNA, promoting the transcription of target genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses .
NF-kappa-B Inhibitor Delta (Human Recombinant) is a synthetic protein designed to inhibit the NF-κB pathway. By blocking the activation of NF-κB, this inhibitor can potentially reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses, making it a promising therapeutic candidate for diseases where NF-κB plays a pivotal role .
The inhibitor works by preventing the degradation of IκB proteins, which are inhibitors of NF-κB. Normally, IκB proteins bind to NF-κB and sequester it in the cytoplasm. Upon activation, IκB proteins are phosphorylated and degraded, allowing NF-κB to enter the nucleus. NF-kappa-B Inhibitor Delta stabilizes IκB proteins, thereby preventing NF-κB from translocating to the nucleus and initiating the transcription of pro-inflammatory genes .
The inhibition of the NF-κB pathway has significant therapeutic potential. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
While NF-kappa-B Inhibitor Delta shows promise, there are challenges to its clinical application. The NF-κB pathway is involved in many physiological processes, and its inhibition can lead to unintended side effects. Therefore, a balance must be struck between therapeutic efficacy and safety .
Future research is focused on improving the specificity of NF-κB inhibitors to minimize side effects and enhance their therapeutic potential. Additionally, combination therapies that target multiple pathways are being explored to achieve better clinical outcomes .