Activator protein 1 and Nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathways (AP-1/NF-κB)

Activator protein 1 (AP-1) and Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) are pivotal transcription factor complexes that integrate signals from various stimuli, including cytokines, growth factors, and environmental stress, to regulate gene expression (PMID: 10889797). AP-1 is primarily composed of Jun and Fos family proteins, while NF-κB is a dimeric complex of Rel-family proteins such as p65 and p50 (PMID: 12496471). These pathways play central roles in the immune response, inflammation, and cell survival, and their constitutive activation is a hallmark of many cancers and autoimmune disorders (PMID: 11244040). Pharmacological modulation often involves glucocorticoids, which antagonize both factors, or proteasome inhibitors like bortezomib that prevent NF-κB activation (PMID: 14707102). Because these pathways control a vast array of physiological processes, therapeutic targeting requires careful balance to avoid severe immunosuppression or systemic toxicity (PMID: 15123778).

Other names

AP-1 signalingNF-kappaB signalingPro-inflammatory transcription factor pathwaysJun/Fos and Rel signaling

Inhibition of nuclear translocation, prevention of DNA binding, or inhibition of upstream activating kinases such as the IKK complex or MAPKs.