INTRODUCTION: NF-kB is a key regulator of inflammation and immunity in cancer 
development. The IkB kinase (IKK) is a multisubunit complex containing catalytic 
subunits termed IKK-α, -β and -γ. It is well known that many pro-inflammatory 
stimuli require the IKK-β subunit for NF-kB activation.
AREAS COVERED: NF-kB affects the progression of inflammation-related 
diseases,such as myocardial ischemia, bronchial asthma, arthritis, cancer and 
other diseases. We review the characteristics and effects of these inhibitors on 
inflammatory and other diseases.
EXPERT OPINION: Various synthesized IKK inhibitors have been developed and they 
will be used clinically in the near future.