MAPK12 Human

Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 12 (MAPK12), also known as p38γ, is a member of the p38 MAPK family. This family of kinases plays a crucial role in cellular responses to extracellular stimuli, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines and physical stress . MAPK12 is encoded by the MAPK12 gene, which is located on chromosome 22q13.33 in humans .

MAPK12 is a serine/threonine kinase that functions as an essential component of the MAP kinase signal transduction pathway . It is one of the four p38 MAPKs, which include p38α, p38β, p38γ (MAPK12), and p38δ . These kinases are activated by various environmental stresses and inflammatory cytokines, leading to the activation of transcription factors such as ELK1 and ATF2 .

The primary function of MAPK12 is to act as a signal transducer during the differentiation of myoblasts to myotubes . It is involved in various cellular processes, including cell differentiation, apoptosis, and response to stress .

MAPK12 is part of several important signaling pathways, including the Prolactin Signaling and GPCR Pathway . It phosphorylates a broad range of proteins, with an estimated 200 to 300 substrates . Some of its downstream targets include kinases such as MAPKAPK2, which further phosphorylate additional targets .

Mutations or dysregulation of MAPK12 have been associated with various diseases, including breast cancer and retinitis pigmentosa 62 . Due to its role in stress response and inflammation, MAPK12 is a potential target for therapeutic interventions in inflammatory diseases and cancer .

Human recombinant MAPK12 is widely used in research to study its function and role in various cellular processes. It is also used in drug discovery and development to identify potential inhibitors that can modulate its activity .