Emerging data revealed the critical role of the TonEBP (NFAT5), initially identified as a central DNA binding transcription factors, in inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, and chronic kidney disease. We suggested that TonEBP is a critical factor in diet-induced obesity, cancer, brain disorders and autoimmune disease. Our research group investigates cellular and molecular pathway of TonEBP action in a variety of inflammatory diseases and develops anti-inflammatory agents targeting TonEBP.