Inhibitor of kappaB kinase subunit beta (IKKβ)

Inhibitor of kappaB kinase subunit beta (IKKβ or IKK2) is a catalytic subunit of the IκB kinase complex, which also includes IKKα and the regulatory subunit IKKγ (NEMO)[2][4][5]. IKKβ is a serine/threonine protein kinase responsible for phosphorylating inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB) proteins in response to various extracellular stimuli, such as cytokines, microbial products, and stress signals[1][2][4]. This leads to IκB degradation and subsequent activation of NF-κB transcription factors, which regulate genes involved in inflammation, immune response, cell survival, and proliferation[2][4]. IKKβ is essential for canonical NF-κB signaling and also plays direct roles in cell cycle regulation and maintenance of genome stability[1][4][5]. Due to its central role in inflammation and immunity, as well as its involvement in diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders, IKKβ is a major therapeutic target, but its inhibition can present notable safety challenges[4][1].

Other names

IκB kinase 2IKK2I-kappa-B kinase betaIKBKBinhibitor of NF-κB kinase subunit beta

Inhibition of IKKβ blocks phosphorylation and degradation of IκB, preventing NF-κB activation and transcription of target genes[4]. Some drugs act as ATP-competitive inhibitors of the kinase activity.