Targeting NF-κB: A Promising Molecular Therapy in Inflammatory Arthritis

Abstract

The nuclear factor-κ B family of transcription factors is intimately involved in the regulation of the inflammatory responses that play a fundamental role in the damage of articular tissues. Thus, many studies have examined the important contributions of components of the NF-κB signaling pathways to the pathogenesis of various rheumatic diseases and their pharmacologic modulation. Currently available therapeutic agents including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, nutraceuticals, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, as well as novel specific small-molecule inhibitors have been employed. In addition, promising nucleic acid–based strategies have shown encouraging results. However, further research will be needed before NF-κB–aimed strategies become an effective therapy for inflammatory arthritis.

Keywords:

• NF-κB
• inflammatory arthritis
• rheumatoid arthritis
• osteoarthritis
• inflammation