Abstract
NF-kappaB family is a kind of nuclear factors in B lymphocyte that can bind to the immunoglobulin kappa-chain enhancer and enhance transcriptional activity. NF-kappaB/Rel proteins, as a dimeric transcription factor, control the expression of genes that regulate a broad range of biological processes through canonical and non-canonical pathways. In the central nervous system, NF-kappaB controls inflammatory reactions and the apoptotic cell death following nerve injury. It also contributes to the infarction and cell death in stroke models and patients. However, NF-kappaB is essential for neurosurvival as well. NF-kappaB activation is a part of recovery process that may protect neurons against oxidative-stresses or brain ischemia-induced apoptosis and neurodegeneration. Inhibition of NF-kappaB may reduce its neuroprotection activity. Hence the dual opposite effects of NF-kappaB on cells. The ultimate survival or death of neurons depends on which, where and when the NF-kappaB factors are activated.