Transcription factors

Transcription factors are proteins that bind to DNA and regulate gene expression. Their overexpression is thought to play a role in the development of some types of cancer.

The transcription factor most commonly associated with myeloma is known as osteoblast B (NF-κB) (Figure 7). It controls genes involved in the regulation of a broad range of biological processes including immune response to infection, inflammation, stress responses and B-cell growth and development. NF-κB can be activated by:

• Cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 (IL-1)
• Mutations of NF-κB and a related protein IκB
• DNA damage, such as that caused by chemotherapy and radiation

Incorrect activation of NF-κB is known to be involved in myeloma cell growth and survival.