IRAK

IRAK (Interleukin-1 Receptor-Associated Kinase) is a key enzyme in the signaling pathway associated with the Toll-like and IL-1 receptors, which are crucial for initiating immune responses. There are several members in the IRAK family, with IRAK1 and IRAK4 being the most studied. These kinases play pivotal roles in mediating inflammatory responses by transmitting signals from the receptors to downstream proteins, leading to the activation of NF-kB, a transcription factor that promotes the expression of inflammatory genes. Given their central role in inflammation and immunity, IRAKs are significant targets for drug development, particularly for treating autoimmune diseases, inflammatory disorders, and certain infections where modulation of the immune response is beneficial.