Role of nuclear factor-κB in atherogenesis

Abstract

Transcription factors of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/Rel family have an important function in the regulation of a variety of genes involved in the inflammatory and proliferative responses of cells. Recent studies strongly indicate that the inducible transcription factor NF-κB is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Activated NF-κB is present in the fibrotic thickened intima-media and atheromatous areas of the atherosclerotic lesion, within smooth muscle cells, macrophages and endothelial cells, whereas little or no activated NF-κB can be detected in vessels lacking atherosclerosis. A variety of molecules have been identified in the atherosclerotic environment that are able to activate NF-κB in vitro. Furthermore, an increased expression of numerous genes known to be regulated by NF-κB has been found in the atherosclerotic lesion. Possible functional implications for activated NF-κB in atherogenesis are discussed here. The activation and role of NF-κB in atherosclerosis may provide a model for the involvement of the transcription factor in human chronic inflammatory disease.