MAPKpolku

MAPKpolku, also known as the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, is a fundamental signaling cascade in eukaryotic cells that plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and apoptosis. The pathway is activated in response to a wide range of extracellular stimuli, such as growth factors, cytokines, and stress signals.

The MAPK pathway consists of three main kinase modules: the MAPK kinase kinase (MAPKKK or MEKK), the MAPK kinase (MAPKK or MEK), and the MAPK itself. The pathway is initiated when a MAPKKK, such as Raf, is activated by upstream signaling molecules. Activated MAPKKK then phosphorylates and activates a MAPKK, such as MEK. Activated MEK phosphorylates and activates a MAPK, such as ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) or p38. Activated MAPKs translocate to the nucleus, where they phosphorylate various transcription factors, leading to the expression of target genes involved in cellular responses.

The MAPK pathway is highly conserved across different species and is involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes. Dysregulation of the MAPK pathway has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, inflammatory disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, the MAPK pathway is an attractive target for drug development in the treatment of these diseases.