MAPK11 Human

Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 11 (MAPK11), also known as p38 beta, is a member of the p38 MAPK family, which plays a crucial role in cellular responses to external stimuli. This family of kinases is involved in various cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, transcriptional regulation, and development .

MAPK11 is a serine/threonine kinase encoded by the MAPK11 gene. It is widely expressed in various tissues, including fat and the brain . The recombinant form of MAPK11 is often produced using baculovirus expression systems in insect cells, which allows for the generation of full-length, active proteins with tags such as GST for purification purposes .

MAPK11 is activated by proinflammatory cytokines and environmental stresses through phosphorylation by mitogen-activated protein kinase kinases (MKKs). Once activated, MAPK11 can phosphorylate a broad range of substrates, including transcription factors, which leads to the regulation of gene expression . This kinase is essential for the integration of biochemical signals that govern cellular responses to stress and inflammation .

The p38 MAPK family, including MAPK11, is involved in innate immunity and the inflammatory response. MAPK11 specifically regulates the activation of several transcription factors and is implicated in various signaling pathways, such as the Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) cascade and the Prolactin signaling pathway . Its role in these pathways underscores its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis and responding to external stressors.

Dysregulation of MAPK11 activity has been associated with various diseases, including inflammatory disorders and certain cancers. Understanding the mechanisms of MAPK11 activation and function can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for these conditions .