Mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 and Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK1 (ERK2) and MAPK3 (ERK1))

Mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1/ERK2) and Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3/ERK1) are closely related serine/threonine kinases that serve as core components of the ERK/MAPK signaling cascade. They integrate extracellular signals to regulate diverse cellular processes, most notably cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. ERK1/2 are activated by phosphorylation through upstream MEK1/2 in response to growth factors and other stimuli, subsequently translocating to the nucleus where they phosphorylate a wide range of transcription factors and other substrates. Dysregulation of ERK1/2 signaling contributes to the development and progression of many cancers and other diseases, which has made ERK1/2 compelling therapeutic targets.

Other names

ERK2p42MAPKERK-2PRKM1MAPK2p41mapkp42-MAPKERK1p44MAPKERK-1PRKM3p44-ERK1

Inhibition of kinase activity (blocking phosphorylation of downstream targets) Disruption of ERK activation, leading to decreased cell proliferation and/or increased apoptosis