| Definition: |
A trimeric protein complex that phosphorylates inhibitory-kappaB (I-kappaB) proteins. The complex is composed of two kinase subunits (alpha and beta) and a regulatory gamma subunit (also called NEMO). In a resting state, NF-kappaB dimers are bound to inhibitory IKB proteins, sequestering NF-kappaB in the cytoplasm. Phosphorylation of I-kappaB targets I-kappaB for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, thus releasing the NF-kappaB dimers, which can translocate to the nucleus to bind DNA and regulate transcription. |