Nuclear factor kappa B is an important transcription factor. It plays a pivotal role in inflammatory responses, immune and cell apoptosis. Since its identification over ten years ago, the structure, function and mechanism of NF kappa B have always been the focus. This review presents the recent research progression of NF κB structure and function, furthermore, inhibitor and cotranscription factors of NF κB together with the interaction between NF κB and other transcription factors are also introduced hereinafter.