nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)

Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is a protein complex inside cells that acts as a key regulator of the immune response, inflammation, and cell survival. When the body detects threats like infections or stress, NF-κB is activated and moves to the cell nucleus, where it turns on genes that help fight the threat and repair damage. It also helps control cell growth and death. Proper functioning of NF-κB is essential for immune defense, but if it becomes overactive, it may contribute to chronic inflammation and diseases such as cancer.