Carcinogenic metals and NF-kappa B activation

Epidemiological and animal studies suggest that several metals and metal-co ntaining compounds are potent mutagens and carcinogens. These metals includ e chromium, arsenic, vanadium, and nickel. During the last two decades, che mical and cellular studies have contributed enormously to our understanding of the mechanisms of metal-induced pathophysiological processes. Although each of these metals is unique in its mechanism of action, some common sign aling molecules, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), may be shared by ma ny of these carcinogenic metals. New techniques are now available to reveal the mechanisms of carcinogenesis in precise molecular terms. In this revie w, we focused our attentions on metal-induced signal transduction pathways leading to the activation of NF-kappaB, a transcription factor governing th e expression of most early response genes involved in a number of human dis eases.