IκB Kinase-β Regulates Neutrophil Recruitment Through Activation of STAT3 Signaling in the Esophagus.

Background & Aims: The epithelial barrier is the host's first line of defense against damage to the underlying tissue. Upon injury, the epithelium plays a critical role in inflammation. The IκB kinase β (IKKβ)/nuclear factor-κB pathway was shown to be active in the esophageal epithelium of patients with esophageal disease.