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Navigating the ERK1/2 MAPK Cascade

Authors :
Ana Martin-Vega
Melanie H. Cobb
Source :
Biomolecules, Vol 13, Iss 10, p 1555 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2023.

Abstract

The RAS-ERK pathway is a fundamental signaling cascade crucial for many biological processes including proliferation, cell cycle control, growth, and survival; common across all cell types. Notably, ERK1/2 are implicated in specific processes in a context-dependent manner as in stem cells and pancreatic β-cells. Alterations in the different components of this cascade result in dysregulation of the effector kinases ERK1/2 which communicate with hundreds of substrates. Aberrant activation of the pathway contributes to a range of disorders, including cancer. This review provides an overview of the structure, activation, regulation, and mutational frequency of the different tiers of the cascade; with a particular focus on ERK1/2. We highlight the importance of scaffold proteins that contribute to kinase localization and coordinate interaction dynamics of the kinases with substrates, activators, and inhibitors. Additionally, we explore innovative therapeutic approaches emphasizing promising avenues in this field.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2218273X
Volume :
13
Issue :
10
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Biomolecules
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.0b4012c17374b3199887710ab3986e5
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/biom13101555