Targeting the NF-κB Pathway in Cancer: Mechanisms, Resistance, and Therapeutic Potential Across Tumor Types

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Cancer is a major cause of death with limited therapeutic options.
• The Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) pathway regulates inflammation and immunity, and its dysregulation is linked to cancer.
• Current cancer therapies face challenges like drug resistance, inefficacy, and adverse effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of the NF-κB pathway in tumor development and progression.
• To discuss the potential of targeting NF-κB pathway modulators for cancer drug discovery.
• To focus on high-prevalence cancers including breast, colorectal, lung, melanoma, and prostate cancers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of the NF-κB pathway in cancer.
• Analysis of NF-κB's role in tumor development and progression.
• Examination of therapeutic strategies targeting the NF-κB pathway.

Main Results:

• The NF-κB pathway is a central regulator implicated in various cancers.
• Targeting NF-κB inhibitors shows potential, especially in hematologic malignancies.
• Challenges exist in translating NF-κB inhibition to solid tumors due to pathway complexity and essential roles in immunity.

Conclusions:

• The NF-κB pathway is a significant target for cancer drug discovery.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges in targeting NF-κB for solid tumor treatment.
• NF-κB inhibitors offer a promising avenue for novel cancer therapies.