Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Pathway (None)

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is a highly conserved signal transduction cascade present in all eukaryotic cells. It plays a central role in converting extracellular signals into various intracellular responses, regulating essential cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, survival, apoptosis, gene expression, and motility. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in cancer, making components of the RAS–RAF–MEK–ERK axis therapeutic targets. The pathway consists of three sequentially acting kinases: MAPKKK, MAPKK, and MAPK. Major cascades include ERK1/2, JNK, p38, and ERK5, each involved in distinct cellular functions. Activation is tightly regulated and involves receptor engagement, adaptor proteins, and phosphorylation events.

Inhibition of kinase activity within the MAPK cascade