During the last years many efforts have been made in order to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the gene transcription regulation. Special attention has been given to some molecules involved in these regulatory processes, as the transcription factors. Understanding the role of these factors in several neural functions will allow a better knowledge of the disorders related to the central nervous system (CNS) disorders, and will also help identify new pathways for therapeutic access. The transcription factor NF-kappaB is remarkable for its wide range of actions and also due to the many different proteins involved in its activation. There is evidence this factor works in the plasticity, development and neurodegeneration, and takes part of essential and specific functions of neurons and glial cells. Brain-specific activators of NF-kappaB include glutamate (via both NMDA and AMPA/KA receptors) and neurotrophins. This article reviews the complex biochemical regulation of NF-B activation, emphasizing the potential of the contributions this transcription factor could make to psychopharmacology field. Therefore, changes in NF-kappaB activity might provide insight in the development of new psychoactive drugs.
CNS disorders; Plasticity; Transcription factors; NF-kappaB; Psychopharmacology; Signal transduction
