Transforming Growth Factor β-Activated Kinase 1 (TAK1)

Transforming Growth Factor β-Activated Kinase 1 (TAK1), also known as MAP3K7, is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a crucial role in the TAK1–IKK–NF-κB pathway. It is activated by various stimuli, including proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNFα, IL-1β), TGF-β, and BMP4. Upon activation, TAK1 phosphorylates and activates IKKα/β, leading to NF-κB activation and subsequent gene expression involved in immune responses, inflammation, cell survival, and proliferation. Dysregulation of TAK1 is implicated in various diseases, including cancer and inflammatory disorders, making it a potential therapeutic target.

Other names

MAP3K7Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 7

TAK1 inhibitors block the phosphorylation and activation of downstream kinases in the NF-κB and MAPK pathways.