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The c-Rel Transcription Factor in Development and Disease
Thomas D Gilmore1, Steve Gerondakis
1Boston University, Biology Department, Boston, MA, USA.
Genes & Cancer
|December 31, 2011
Summary
The nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) protein c-Rel is crucial for B and T cell function. Its dysregulation is linked to autoimmune diseases and cancers, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- c-Rel is a transcription factor within the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) family.
- High c-Rel expression is predominantly observed in B and T lymphocytes, regulating their growth and survival.
- The human c-rel gene (REL) is implicated as a susceptibility locus for autoimmune conditions like arthritis, psoriasis, and celiac disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of c-Rel in immune cell function and its association with diseases.
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of modulating REL activity for cancer and inflammatory diseases.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of c-Rel expression patterns in various cell types.
- Examination of the human c-rel gene (REL) in autoimmune disease susceptibility.
- Assessment of REL alterations and expression in malignancies.
Main Results:
- c-Rel plays a significant role in mammalian B and T cell biology.
- The REL locus is frequently altered and overexpressed in B and T cell cancers.
- REL is associated with susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.
Conclusions:
- Modulating REL activity may offer therapeutic benefits for certain human cancers.
- Targeting REL could be a strategy for treating chronic inflammatory diseases.
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