The main findings of the present study are that DNA-binding of NF-κB and p50 homodimer as well as RELA gene expression are downregulated in the PFC of chronic alcoholics. The downregulation of DNA-binding might result from the decrease in RELA gene expression, and from the alterations in stoichiometry in p65, p50 and IKKβ proteins (Figure 6). p65 and p50 proteins constitute NF-κB and p50 homodimer while IKKβ integrates signals regulating the NF-κB system through phosphorylation of IκBα and p65. No significant differences between control and alcoholic groups in the NF-κB system were found in the MC suggesting that dysregulation of NF-κB-mediated adaptive mechanisms is specific for the PFC.
