%0 Journal Article %A Rajesh Kumar %A Qian Chen Yong %A Candice M. Thomas %T Do Multiple Nuclear Factor Kappa B Activation Mechanisms Explain Its Varied Effects in the Heart? %D 2013 %J Ochsner Journal %P 157-165 %V 13 %N 1 %X Background Multiple studies have demonstrated the important role of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in cardiac pathology. However, these studies' conclusions differ regarding whether NF-κB is protective or detrimental for heart function. This disagreement is not surprising considering the complexity of NF-κB signaling that involves multiple components and regulation at several steps. Furthermore, NF-κB is a pleiotropic transcription factor that receives signals from multiple pathways, including the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and cytokines, 2 important modulators of cardiac remodeling.Methods In this article, we review studies related to the role and mechanisms of NF-κB activation in the heart, particularly with regard to the RAS, inflammation, and diabetes. The objective of this review is to consolidate multiple, often contradictory, findings to develop a clear understanding of NF-κB signaling in the heart.Conclusions The studies we review demonstrate that NF-κB effects in the heart are mechanism specific and that NF-κB signaling is cyclical. Consequently, the timing of NF-κB measurement is critical, and studies focused on temporal changes in the NF-κB mechanism would help clarify its multiple roles in cardiac pathophysiology. %U https://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/ochjnl/13/1/157.full.pdf