role of the nuclear factor-kappa b signaling pathway on the progress of hepatic fibrosis and the anti-fibrotic mechanism of traditional chinese medicine

Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) plays an important role in various physiological and pathological processes by regulating gene expression, such as cell survival, growth, proliferation, activation, and apoptosis. In particular, the NF-κB signaling pathway has an important regulatory effect on the progression of hepatic fibrosis. This article reviews the structure and function of NF-κB, the regulatory effect of NF-κB on hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells in the progression of hepatic fibrosis, and the anti-fibrotic mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine by regulating the activity of the NF-κB signaling pathway. We also point out the complex interaction between NF-κB and various types of cells in certain diseases and emphasize the clinical significance of traditional Chinese medicine in inhibiting the activity of NF-κB and alleviating hepatic fibrosis.