NF-κB – a target in the inflammation of bone destruction

Abstract

NF-κB activation is associatied with the inflammation of bone destruction and certain cancers. The NEMO (NF-kB essential modulator)-binding domain (NBD) protein inhibits the activation of NF-κB. Cellular studies have shown that the NBD protein inhibits osteoclastogenesis. Mimicking infection with a lipopolysaccharide injection in mice resulted in activated osteoclasts and reduced bone mineral density. These responses are inhibited with the NBD peptide. In a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis, collagen-induced arthritis, treatment with the NBD protein delayed the onset, lowered the incidence and decreased the severity of the arthritis. NF-κB is a target in the inflammation associated with bone destruction. A key issue is whether or not this important transcription factor can be inhibited without causing excessive adverse effects and/or toxicity.

• bone destruction
• inflammation
• NEMO-binding domain (NBD) protein
• NF-κB
• rheumatoid arthritis (RA)