Commonly used cat reporter vectors contain a cAMP-inducible, cryptic enhancer that co-operates with NF-kappa B-sites.

Commercially available and widely used cat expression vectors were found to contain a forskolin (Fs)-inducible element capable of co-operation with NF-kappa B-sites in test promoters. An alternative NF-kappa B-dependent reporter system is presented that allows investigation of the effects of Fs and other agents that augment intracellular cyclic AMP.