TAB1TAK1

TAB1TAK1 refers to the signaling module formed by TAK1-binding protein 1 (TAB1) and TAK1 (MAP3K7). In many cellular contexts, TAB1 directly binds TAK1 to form a functional complex that transduces inflammatory and stress signals. The TAB1-TAK1 complex can associate with other TAK1-binding partners such as TAB2 or TAB3, which recognize polyubiquitin chains and facilitate TAK1 recruitment and activation.

Activation of the TAB1-TAK1 module typically occurs in response to pro-inflammatory stimuli, including interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor, and Toll-like receptor engagement. Upon stimulation, TAK1 becomes activated through conformational changes and ubiquitin-dependent events that promote its kinase activity within the complex. Activated TAK1 then phosphorylates downstream targets to propagate signals through two major branches: the NF-κB pathway via IKK, and the MAP kinase pathways via MKKs, leading to activation of p38 and JNK and downstream transcriptional programs.

Biological significance of the TAB1-TAK1 axis includes regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses, inflammation, cell survival, and tissue homeostasis. Dysregulation of this module has been linked to inflammatory diseases, fibrosis, and various cancers, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in conditions driven by aberrant NF-κB and MAPK signaling.

Genetically, TAB1 and TAK1 are distinct proteins encoded by TAB1 and MAP3K7, respectively. The term “TAB1TAK1” is commonly used to describe the functional complex rather than a separate gene or protein, and it is not a standalone gene symbol in standard databases.

See also: TAB2, TAB3, TAK1, NF-κB, MAPK, MAP3K7.