Targeting NF-κB signaling pathway in cancer by dietary polyphenols

Being a transcription factor, NF-kappa B regulates gene expressions involving cell survival and proliferation, drug resistance, metastasis, and angiogenesis. The activation of NF-kappa B plays a central role in the development of inflammation and cancer. Thus, the down-regulation of NF-kappa B may be an exciting target in prevention and treatment of cancer. NF-kappa B could act as a tumor activator or tumor suppressant decided by the site of action (organ). Polyphenols are widely distributed in plant species, consumption of which have been documented to negatively regulate the NF-kappa B signaling pathway. They depress the phosphorylation of kinases, inhibit NF-kappa B translocate into the nucleus as well as interfere interactions between NF-kappa B and DNA. Through inhibition of NF-kappa B, polyphenols downregulate inflammatory cascade, induce apoptosis and decrease cell proliferation and metastasis. This review highlights the anticancer effects of polyphenols on the basis of NF-kappa B signaling pathway regulation.