"Nuclear Factor Kappa-Light-Chain-Enhancer of Activated B Cells (NF-κB): A Therapeutic Target for Gastrointestinal Tract Autoimmune Diseases"

The immune system protects the body against diseases caused by bacteria, virus and fungi.As essential controllers of both innate and adaptive immune responses, activation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-B) signaling pathway has a role in the development of immunological diseases.NF-B is a well-known proinflammatory mediator and its deregulated activation has been linked to autoimmune disorders and chronic inflammation.Autoimmune disorders can arise when the immune system mistakenly attack healthy cells.An adaptive immune response specifically directed against a self-antigen is known as an autoimmune disease.Autoimmune diseases are broadly divided into two categories namely organ-specific and non-organ-specific (systemic).Some of the known organ-specific autoimmune diseases are multiple sclerosis (brain), autoimmune pancreatitis (pancreas), autoimmune hepatitis (liver), ulcerative colitis (gastrointestinal tract) and Hashimoto thyroiditis (thyroid).Therapeutic approaches are available for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, which are not completely efficient and have unfavourable side effects.As an alternative approach, phytochemicals and herbs are effective in fighting off a variety of diseases, including autoimmune disorders.This review aims to provide information about the use of phytochemicals in treating autoimmune diseases focusing on NF-B signaling pathway specific to gastrointestinal tract.