Mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (p38α)

Mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (p38α) is a member of the p38 MAPK family of serine/threonine kinases involved in cellular responses to stress and inflammation. Activated primarily by phosphorylation through upstream kinases, p38α regulates gene expression, cell differentiation, apoptosis, and inflammation by phosphorylating key transcription factors and regulatory proteins. The p38 MAPK pathway is a major therapeutic target in diseases driven by inflammation, cancer, and degenerative conditions. Multiple small-molecule inhibitors of p38α have reached clinical evaluation for inflammatory diseases and other disorders, but challenges remain regarding selectivity and safety due to the enzyme’s broad physiological roles

Other names

p38 MAP kinaseMAPK14p38αstress-activated protein kinaseCSBP (cytokinin-specific binding protein)RK

Inhibition of kinase activity by binding to the ATP-binding site Downregulation of proinflammatory mediator synthesis (e.g., TNFα, IL-1) Decreased phosphorylation of downstream substrates (transcription factors, cell cycle regulators)