NF-κB
NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) is a protein complex that functions as a major transcription factor regulating immune response, inflammation, cellular growth, and apoptosis. It is held inactive in the cytoplasm by IκB proteins under normal conditions. Upon stimulation by various stress signals, such as cytokines, free radicals, ultraviolet irradiation, or bacterial and viral antigens, IκB is degraded, releasing NF-κB to enter the nucleus and activate genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses, cell proliferation, and survival. Dysregulation of NF-κB is linked to cancer, and inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, making it a significant target for drugs aiming to modulate immune response and prevent chronic inflammation and cancer.