Precision Targeting of NF-κB Signaling in Lupus Nephritis

Abstract

Lupus Nephritis (LN) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality from Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and enhanced activation of the transcription regulator nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is implicated as a central player in the development and progression of LN. SLE and LN are proposed to develop through a “two-hit” process of genetic mutation or variants providing susceptibility to disease provoking molecular events in response to environmental triggers (viral infection, medication, etc.). Many of the susceptibility genes identified in association with LN are involved in NF-κB regulation and loss of function of some of the protein products in animal’s results in protection from or development of SLE and LN phenotypes. This short commentary will discuss these factors and implications in precision treatment of LN.