Role of nuclear factor-kappa B in melanoma

Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2005 Jun;24(2):301-13. doi: 10.1007/s10555-005-1579-7.

Abstract

Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) is an inducible transcription factor that regulates the expression of many genes involved in the immune response. Recently, NF-kappa B activity has been shown to be upregulated in many cancers, including melanoma. Data indicate that the enhanced activation of NF-kappa B may be due to deregulations in upstream signaling pathways such as Ras/Raf, PI3K/Akt, and NIK. Multiple studies have shown that NF-kappa B is involved in the regulation of apoptosis, angiogenesis, and tumor cell invasion, all of which indicate the important role of NF-kappa B in tumorigenesis. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanism of melanoma progression will aid in designing new therapeutic approaches for melanoma. In this review, the association between NF-kappa B and melanoma tumorigenesis are discussed. Additionally, the potential of emerging selective NF-kappa B inhibitors for the treatment of melanoma is reviewed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic*
  • Disease Progression
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / drug therapy
  • Melanoma / genetics
  • Melanoma / physiopathology*
  • NF-kappa B / biosynthesis
  • NF-kappa B / genetics
  • NF-kappa B / physiology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms / genetics
  • Skin Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Up-Regulation

Substances

  • NF-kappa B