The NF-κB family in learning and memory

The nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) transcription factors are expressed in all cells of the central nervous system where they are activated by physiological as well as pathological stimuli. This chapter discusses the role of NFκB in mechanisms of plasticity within the brain and its unique function in neurons as a transcription factor that can localize in dendrites and at synapses. A requirement for NFκB in the regulation of cognitive processes such as learning and memory appears conserved across species from invertebrates to mammals. NFκB can be activated by excitatory neurotransmission, and its capacity to reciprocally regulate genes with potential impact on synaptic strength and plasticity is now emerging.