MAPK Pathways (mapk + pathway)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences


Selected Abstracts


Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression Induced by Photofrin Photodynamic Therapy Involves the p38 MAPK Pathway,

PHOTOCHEMISTRY & PHOTOBIOLOGY, Issue 2 2008
Marian Luna
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), using the porphyrin photosensitizer Photofrin (PH), is approved for the clinical treatment of solid tumors. In addition to the direct cytotoxic responses of PH,PDT-mediated oxidative stress, this procedure also induces expression of angiogenic and prosurvival molecules including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). In vivo treatment efficacy is improved when PH-PDT is combined with inhibitors of COX-2. In the current study we evaluated the signaling pathways involved with PH,PDT-mediated COX-2 expression in a mouse fibrosarcoma cell line. COX-2 promoter reporter constructs with mutated transcription elements documented that the nuclear factor kappa B (NF,B) element, cyclic-AMP response element 2 (CRE-2), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP) element and activator binding protein-1 (AP-1) element were responsive to PH-PDT. Transcription factor binding assays demonstrated that nuclear protein binding to NF,B, CRE-2, c-fos and c-jun elements were elevated following PH-PDT. Kinase phosphorylation upstream of COX-2 expression was also examined following PH-PDT. Stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK) and c-Jun were phosphorylated following PH-PDT but the SAPK/JNK inhibitor SP600125 failed to attenuate COX-2 expression. In contrast, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), which activates CRE-2 binding, was phosphorylated following PH-PDT and inhibitors of p38 MAPK, SB203580 and SB202190, decreased PH,PDT-induced COX-2 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) phosphorylation, which also increases CRE-2 binding activity, was initially high in untreated cells, decreased immediately following PH-PDT and then rapidly increased. MEK1/2 is immediately upstream of ERK1/2 and the MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 failed to attenuate COX-2 expression while the MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126 induced a slight decrease in COX-2 expression. The NF,B inhibitor SN50 failed to reduce COX-2 expression. These results demonstrate that multiple protein kinase cascades can be activated by oxidative stress and that the p38 MAPK signaling pathway and CRE-2 binding are involved in COX-2 expression following PH-PDT. [source]


Alternative splicing of MDM2 mRNA in lung carcinomas and lung cell lines

ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS, Issue 1 2005
Mao-Wen Weng
Abstract The MDM2 gene is overexpressed in several human tumors and its product may be processed into various isoforms. Recently, alternative splicing forms of MDM2 mRNA have been detected in various types of tumors. In this study, lung tissue from human non small cell lung cancers was examined for MDM2 mRNA splicing variants by nested RT-PCR. Of the 117 lung cancer tissue samples analyzed, a total of 31 (26.5%) had splice variants for the MDM2 gene, while 59 (50.4%) had undetectable levels of MDM2 transcript. Further analysis indicated that the predominant variant for 26 of the 31 samples with alternative MDM2 splicing products was MDM2-657, a splice variant lacking exons 3,11. Significant associations were found between the frequency of alternative splicing and the gender and smoking habits of the patients. Approximately 36% of male patients had alternative splicing of MDM2 compared with only 9.5% of female patients (P = 0.008); 44.2% of the smoker patients had alternative MDM2 splice forms versus 16.2% of nonsmokers (P = 0.003). Furthermore, most normal lung cell lines examined possessed only full-length MDM2 mRNA, while among several lung cancer cell lines, only H1355 and CaLu-1 cells lacked alternatively spliced MDM2 transcripts. When H1355 cells were treated in vitro with the cigarette smoke carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) or the B[a]P metabolite benzo[a]pyrene diolepoxide (BPDE), three MDM2 splicing products were detected by nested RT-PCR. Finally, with the use of several specific inhibitors, we found that BPDE-induced MDM2 mRNA alternative splicing in H1355 cells may occur through the PI3K or MAPK pathway. Overall, our results suggest that carcinogens present in cigarette smoke increase the risk of alternative MDM2 splicing, which is highly associated with lung cancer. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


PI3K limits TNF- , production in CD16-activated monocytes

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2009
Phillip R. Kramer
Abstract IgG complexes bind to Fc receptor family members Fc,RI (CD64), Fc,RII (CD32) and Fc,RIII (CD16), activating cell MAPK and PI3K resulting in increased cytokine production from particular leukocytes. The signaling molecules involved in cytokine production after cross-linking CD16 have not been determined in monocytes. To address this question, TNF-,, IL-1, and IL-6 were measured in activated monocytes after inhibiting MEK1/2, PI3K and glycogen synthase kinase-, (GSK-3,). The roles of GSK-3, and NF-,B were then determined using reporter assays and siRNA treatment. The data suggested that an MAPK pathway stimulated TNF-, release but that active PI3K limited TNF-,, IL-1, and IL-6 cytokine production after cross-linking CD16. PI3K was also shown to limit nuclear translocation of NF-,B. The limiting effect of PI3K on TNF-, production from activated monocytes depended on the decrease of GSK-3, activity, which significantly reduced the transactivation of NF-,B. Moreover, the TNF-, production induced by CD16 cross-linking was reduced in monocytes after treatment with siRNA against NF-,B, implying that this transcription factor functioned in TNF-, production. The results suggest that CD16 cross-linking activated PI3K and that active PI3K limited TNF-, production by inhibiting GSK-3, activity, that blocked the action of NF-,B. [source]


Pathologic expression of MHC class,II is driven by mitogen-activated protein kinases

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 3 2007
Isabelle Martins
Abstract The class,II transactivator (CIITA) is the master regulator of MHC class,II molecules (MHC,II). In melanoma, the MHC,II are constitutively expressed due to an abnormal transcription of CIITA from its promoter,III (pIII), and requires the presence of a 1-kb enhancer located upstream from this latter. Since mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) have been shown to be activated in most melanomas, we sought to analyze their possible involvement in CIITA expression. Using chemical inhibitors and dominant-negative constructs of MAPK-ERK kinase (Mek1) and MAPK-JNK, we evidenced the inhibition of MHC,II and CIITA expression in melanoma cell lines displaying activated MAPK. Transcriptional regulation by MAPK is known to involve the AP-1 transcription factor family. Sequence analysis revealed an AP-1-responsive motif in the enhancer of CIITA pIII at ,5954/,5947 from the site of transcription initiation. Its mutagenesis reduced CIITA expression four- to fivefold in melanoma cell lines and alleviated the effect of dominant-negative constructs of the MAPK pathway. Together, our findings demonstrate that MAPK-ERK and MAPK-JNK are regulators of CIITA transcription in melanoma, and pinpoint an AP-1-responsive site in the CIITA gene pIII. This should have considerable impact on our understanding of the physio-pathologic expression of MHC,II. [source]


Synergistic induction of cyclin D1 in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells by IGF-I and FGF-2 requires differential stimulation of multiple signaling pathways

GLIA, Issue 10 2007
Terra J. Frederick
Abstract D-type cyclins are direct targets of extracellular signals and critical regulators of G1 progression. Our previous data demonstrated that IGF-I and FGF-2 synergize to enhance cyclin D1 expression, cyclin E/cdk2 complex activation, and S-phase entry in OP cells. Here, we provide a mechanistic explanation for how two growth factor signaling pathways converge on a major cell cycle regulator. IGF-I and FGF-2 differentially activate signaling pathways to coordinately promote cyclin D1 expression. We show that the p44/p42 MAPK signaling pathway is essential for FGF-2 induction of cyclin D1 mRNA. In contrast, blocking the PI3-Kinase pathway results in loss of IGF-I/FGF-2 synergistic induction of cyclin D1 protein levels. Moreover, the presence of IGF-I significantly enhances nuclear localization of cyclin D1, which also requires PI3K signaling. GSK-3,, a downstream target of the PI3K/Akt pathway, is phosphorylated in the presence of IGF-I in OPs. Consistent with a known role for GSK-3, in cyclin D1 degradation, we show that proteasome inhibition in OPs exposed to FGF-2 increased cyclin D1 levels, equivalent to levels seen in IGF-I/FGF-2 treated cells. Thus, we provide a model for cyclin D1 coordinate regulation where FGF-2 stimulation of the MAPK pathway promotes cyclin D1 mRNA expression while IGF-I activation of the PI3K pathway inhibits proteasome degradation of cyclin D1 and enhances nuclear localization of cyclin D1. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Antitumor activity of ALK1 in pancreatic carcinoma cells

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 8 2007
Hendrik Ungefroren
Abstract In this study, the authors investigated the expression of activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) in pancreatic carcinoma and evaluated its potential role as a tumor suppressor in vitro and in vivo. Endogenous ALK1 expression was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry in both pancreatic tumor tissue and peritumoral normal tissue from 6 patients and by RT-PCR in 8/12 established pancreatic cancer cell lines. Ectopic expression of a constitutively active (ca) ALK1 mutant in TGF-, sensitive PANC-1 and COLO-357 cells augmented transcriptional activation of a Smad2/3 responsive reporter, and slowed down basal growth in vitro. Both effects were further enhanced by TGF-,/ALK5 stimulation, suggesting largely independent nuclear Smad signaling by both type I receptors. Upon orthotopic transplantation of PANC-1-caALK1 into immunodeficient mice, tumor size was strongly reduced and was associated with a lower microvessel density in the PANC-1-caALK1-derived tumors. In vitro, this mutant efficiently blocked TGF-,-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transdifferentiation and suppressed TGF-,/ALK5-mediated activation of the p38 MAPK pathway. Mechanistically, caALK1 silenced MyD118, an immediate TGF-, target gene whose protein product, GADD45,, couples Smad signaling to p38 activation. These results show that ALK1 activation in pancreatic tumor cells is antioncogenic by inducing ALK5-independent growth inhibition and by blocking TGF-,/ALK5-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transdifferentiation and, possibly, invasion and metastatic progression. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Dysregulation of the BMP-p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway in Cells From Patients With Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP),,

JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 6 2006
Jennifer L Fiori
Abstract FOP is a disabling disorder in which skeletal muscle is progressively replaced with bone. Lymphocytes, our model system for examining BMP signaling, cannot signal through the canonical Smad pathway unless exogenous Smad1 is supplied, providing a unique cell type in which the BMP,p38 MAPK pathway can be examined. FOP lymphocytes exhibit defects in the BMP,p38 MAPK pathway, suggesting that altered BMP signaling underlies ectopic bone formation in this disease. Introduction: Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive heterotopic ossification of connective tissues. Whereas the primary genetic defect in this condition is unknown, BMP4 mRNA and protein and BMP receptor type IA (BMPRIA) protein are overexpressed in cultured lymphocytes from FOP patients, supporting that altered BMP signaling is involved in this disease. In this study, we examined downstream signaling targets to study the BMP,Smad and BMP,p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways in FOP. Materials and Methods: Protein phosphorylation was assayed by immunoblots, and p38 MAPK activity was measured by kinase assays. To examine BMP target genes, the mRNA expression of ID1, ID3, and MSX2 was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t -test or ANOVA. Results: FOP lymphocytes exhibited increased levels of p38 phosphorylation and p38 MAPK activity in response to BMP4 stimulation. Furthermore, in response to BMP4, FOP cells overexpressed the downstream signaling targets ID1 by 5-fold and ID3 by 3-fold compared with controls. ID1 and ID3 mRNA induction was specifically blocked with a p38 MAPK inhibitor, but not extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) or c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitors. MSX2, a known Smad pathway target gene, is not upregulated in control or FOP cells in response to BMP, suggesting that lymphocytes do not use this limb of the BMP pathway. However, introduction of Smad1 into lymphocytes made the cells competent to regulate MSX2 mRNA after BMP4 treatment. Conclusions: Lymphocytes are a cell system that signals primarily through the BMP,p38 MAPK pathway rather than the BMP,Smad pathway in response to BMP4. The p38 MAPK pathway is dysregulated in FOP lymphocytes, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of FOP. [source]


TGF-, inhibits prolactin-induced expression of ,-casein by a Smad3-dependent mechanism,

JOURNAL OF CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY, Issue 5 2008
Wen-Jun Wu
Abstract Transforming growth factor-, (TGF-,) is a multifunctional growth factor, affecting cell proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix homeostasis. It also plays critical roles in mammary gland development, one of which involves inhibition of the expression of milk proteins, such as ,-casein, during pregnancy. Here we further explore the underlying signaling mechanism for it. Our results show that TGF-, suppresses prolactin-induced expression of ,-casein mRNA and protein in primary mouse mammary epithelial cells, but its effect on protein expression is more evident. We also find out that this inhibition is not due to the effect of TGF-, on cell apoptosis. Furthermore, inhibition of TGF-, type I receptor kinase activity by a pharmacological inhibitor SB431542 or overexpression of dominant negative Smad3 substantially restores ,-casein expression. By contrast, inhibition of p38 and Erk that are known to be activated by TGF-, does not alleviate the inhibitory effect of TGF-,. These results are consistent with our other observation that Smad but not MAPK pathway is activated by TGF-, in mammary epithelial cells. Lastly, we show that prolactin-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of Jak2 and Stat5 as well as serine/threonine phosphorylation of p70S6K and S6 ribosomal protein are downregulated by TGF-,, although the former event requires considerably long exposure to TGF-,. We speculate that these events might be involved in repressing transcription and translation of ,-casein gene, respectively. Taken together, our results demonstrate that TGF-, abrogates prolactin-stimulated ,-casein gene expression in mammary epithelial cells through, at least in part, a Smad3-dependent mechanism. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 1647,1659, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Inhibition of Cdk6 expression through p38 MAP kinase is involved in differentiation of mouse prechondrocyte ATDC5

JOURNAL OF CELLULAR PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2005
Toru Moro
Because a temporal arrest in the G1-phase of the cell cycle is a prerequisite for cell differentiation, this study investigated the involvement of cell cycle factors in the differentiation of cultured mouse prechondrocyte cell line ATDC5. Among the G1 cell cycle factors examined, both protein and mRNA levels of cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk6) were downregulated during the culture in a differentiation medium. The protein degradation of Cdk6 was not involved in this downregulation because proteasome inhibitors did not reverse the protein level. When inhibitors of p38 MAPK, ERK-1/2, and PI3K/Akt were added to the culture, only a p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 blocked the decrease in the Cdk6 protein level by the differentiation medium, indicating that the Cdk6 inhibition was mediated by p38 MAPK pathway. In fact, p38 MAPK was confirmed to be phosphorylated during differentiation of ATDC5 cells. Enforced expression of Cdk6 in ATDC5 cells blocked the chondrocyte differentiation and inhibited Sox5 and Sox6 expressions. However, the Cdk6 overexpression did not affect the proliferation or the cell cycle progression, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of Cdk6 on the differentiation was exerted by a mechanism largely independent of its cell cycle regulation. These results indicate that Cdk6 may be a regulator of chondrocyte differentiation and that its p38-mediated downregulation is involved in the efficient differentiation. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Regulation of angiotensin II-stimulated osteopontin expression in cardiac microvascular endothelial cells: Role of p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase and reactive oxygen species,

JOURNAL OF CELLULAR PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 1 2001
Zhonglin Xie
Using spontaneously hypertensive and aortic banded rats, we have shown that expression of myocardial osteopontin, an extracellular matrix protein, coincides with the development of heart failure and is inhibited by captopril, suggesting a role for angiotensin II (ANG II). This study tested whether ANG II induces osteopontin expression in adult rat ventricular myocytes and cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMEC), and if so, whether induction is mediated via activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (p42/44 MAPK) and involves reactive oxygen species (ROS). ANG II (1 ,M, 16 h) increased osteopontin expression (fold increase 3.3±0.34, n,=,12, P,<,0.01) in CMEC as measured by northern analysis, but not in ARVM. ANG II stimulated osteopontin expression in CMEC in a time- (within 4 h) and concentration-dependent manner, which was prevented by the AT1 receptor antagonist, losartan. ANG II elicited robust phosphorylation of p42/44 MAPK as measured using phospho-specific antibodies, and increased superoxide production as measured by cytochrome c reduction and lucigenin chemiluminescence assays. These effects were blocked by diphenylene iodonium (DPI), an inhibitor of the flavoprotein component of NAD(P)H oxidase. PD98059, an inhibitor of p42/44 MAPK pathway, and DPI each inhibited ANG II-stimulated osteopontin expression. Northern blot analysis showed basal expression of p22phox, a critical component of NADH/NADPH oxidase system, which was increased 40,60% by exposure to ANG II. These results suggest that p42/44 MAPK is a critical component of the ROS-sensitive signaling pathways activated by ANG II in CMEC and plays a key role in the regulation of osteopontin gene expression. Published 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Activation of MKK6, an upstream activator of p38, in Alzheimer's disease

JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2001
Xiongwei Zhu
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, but the upstream cascade leading to p38 activation has not been elucidated in the disease. In the present study, we focused on mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 6 (MKK6), one of the upstream activators of p38 MAPK. We found that MKK6 was not only increased but also specifically associated with granular structures in the susceptible neurons in the hippocampus and cortex of Alzheimer's disease patients, but was only weakly diffuse in the cytoplasm in neurons in control cases. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated a significant increase of MKK6 level in Alzheimer's disease compared with age-matched controls. In this regard, in hippocampal and cortical regions of individuals with Alzheimer's disease, the activated phospho-MKK6 was localized exclusively in association with pathological alterations including neurofibrillary tangles, senile plaques, neuropil threads and granular structures, overlapping with activated p38 MAPK suggesting both a functional and mechanic link. By immunoblot analysis, phospho-MKK6 is also significantly increased in AD compared with control cases. Together, these findings lend further credence to the notion that the p38 MAPK pathway is dysregulated in Alzheimer's disease and also indicates an active role for this pathway in disease pathogenesis. [source]


Preferential neurotrophic activity of fibroblast growth factor-20 for dopaminergic neurons through fibroblast growth factor receptor-1c

JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH, Issue 4 2003
Shigeki Ohmachi
Abstract Degeneration of dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra causes Parkinson's disease. Therefore, neurotrophic factors for dopaminergic neurons are of substantial clinical interest. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-20 preferentially expressed in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNPC) of the rat brain significantly enhanced the survival of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Here we examined the mechanism of action of FGF-20 on dopaminergic neurons. FGF-20 slightly enhanced the survival of total neurons of the midbrain, indicating that it preferentially enhanced the survival of dopaminergic neurons. FGF receptor (FGFR)-1c was found to be expressed abundantly in dopaminergic neurons in the SNPC but at much lower levels in neurons of other midbrain regions by in situ hybridization. FGF-20 was also found to bind FGFR-1c with high affinity with the BIAcore system. Furthermore, FGF-20 activated the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which is the major intracellular signaling pathway of FGFs. Both the FGFR-1 inhibitor SU5402 and the MAPK pathway inhibitor PD98059 also significantly inhibited the activation of the MAPK pathway by FGF-20 and the neurotrophic activity of FGF-20. The present findings indicate that the activation of the MAPK pathway by FGF-20 signaling through FGFR-1c plays important roles in the survival of dopaminergic neurons in the SNPC. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Role of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in antiphospholipid antibody-mediated thrombosis and endothelial cell activation

JOURNAL OF THROMBOSIS AND HAEMOSTASIS, Issue 9 2007
M. E. VEGA-OSTERTAG
Summary.,Background:,The purpose of this study was to examine whether SB 203580, a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor, is effective in reversing the pathogenic effects of antiphospholipid antibodies. Methods:,The adhesion of THP-1 monocytes to cultured endothelial cells (EC) treated with immunoglobulin G (IgG) from a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome (IgG-APS) or control IgG (IgG-NHS) in the presence and absence of SB 203580 was examined. The size of an induced thrombus in the femoral vein, the adhesion of leukocytes to EC of cremaster muscle, tissue factor (TF) activity in carotid artery and in peritoneal macrophages, the ex vivo expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in aorta preparations and platelet aggregation were studied in mice injected with IgG-APS or control IgG-NHS and with or without SB 203580. Results:,SB 203580 significantly reduced the increased adhesion of THP-1 to EC in vitro, the number of leukocytes adhering to EC, the thrombus size, the TF activity in carotid arteries and in peritoneal mononuclear cells, and the expression of VCAM-1 in aorta of mice, and completely abrogated platelet aggregation induced by IgG-APS. Conclusion:,These data suggest that targeting the p38 MAPK pathway may be valuable in designing new therapy modalities for treating thrombosis in patients with APS. [source]


Involvement of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in honokiol-induced apoptosis in a human hepatoma cell line (hepG2)

LIVER INTERNATIONAL, Issue 10 2008
Junfang Deng
Abstract Background: Honokiol has been known to have antitumour activity. This study was conducted to evaluate the antiproliferative potential of honokiol against the hepG2 heptocellular cell line and its mechanism of action. Methods: hepG2 cells were treated with honokiol of 0,40 ,g/ml concentration. The cytotoxic effect of honokiol was determined by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. Western blots were used to analyse the expression of various proteins (procaspase-9, procaspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome c, Bcl-2, Bax, Bad, Bcl-XL and p38). Results: Honokiol induced apoptosis with a decreased expression of procaspase-3 and -9 and an increased expression of active caspase-3. Exposure of hepG2 cells to honokiol resulted in the downregulation of Bcl-XL and Bcl-2 expression and the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c to the cytosol. In addition, honokiol activated the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, and the inhibition of this pathway by SB203580 reduced honokiol-induced apoptosis and activation of caspase-3. Conclusion: Honokiol induces apoptosis of hepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells through activation of the p38 MAPK pathway, and, in turn, activation of caspase-3. [source]


Carbon Monoxide has Antioxidative Properties in the Liver Involving p38 MAP Kinase Pathway in a Murine Model of Systemic Inflammation

MICROCIRCULATION, Issue 7 2010
JÜRGEN BRUGGER
Please cite this paper as: Brugger, Schick, Brock, Baumann, Muellenbach, Roewer and Wunder (2010). Carbon Monoxide has Antioxidative Properties in the Liver Involving p38 MAP Kinase Pathway in a Murine Model of Systemic Inflammation. Microcirculation17(7), 504,513. Abstract Objective:, Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important in the hepatocellular injury process during a systemic inflammation. We examined the role of carbon monoxide (CO) on the hepatic generation of ROS with in-vivo and in-vitro models of systemic inflammation. Methods:, Using a murine model of bilateral hindlimb ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) we examined the effect of CO treatment on hepatic ROS formation, oxidative status, and cell injury. Cultured HUVEC were used to investigate intracellular pathways. Results:, CO treatment reduced hepatic lipid peroxidation, re-established total hepatic glutathione and glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) levels and reduced hepatocellular injury. Inhibition of heme oxygenase (HO) during treatment with CO during hindlimb I/R failed to alter the antioxidant qualities provided by CO. The production of ROS after tumor necrosis factor-, (TNF-,) stimulation in HUVEC was diminished after exposure to CO. Treatment with CO during HO inhibition reduced both ROS formation and cell injury. Inhibiting the p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) pathway with pyridinyl imidazol (SB203580) revealed that the antioxidant potential of CO involved the activation of p38 MAPK. Conclusions:, CO has direct antioxidant potential independently of any HO activity during systemic inflammation. The antioxidant effects afforded by CO involve the activation of the p38 MAPK pathway. [source]


cAMP blocks MAPK activation and sclerotial development via Rap-1 in a PKA-independent manner in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 1 2005
Changbin Chen
Summary Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a filamentous ascomycete phytopathogen able to infect an extremely wide range of cultivated plants. Our previous studies have shown that increases in cAMP levels result in the impairment of the development of the sclerotium, a highly differentiated structure important in the disease cycle of this fungus. cAMP also inhibits the activation of a S. sclerotiorum mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), which we have previously shown to be required for sclerotial maturation; thus cAMP-mediated sclerotial inhibition is modulated through MAPK. However, the mechanism(s) by which cAMP inhibits MAPK remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that a protein kinase A (PKA)-independent signalling pathway probably mediates MAPK inhibition by cAMP. Expression of a dominant negative form of Ras, an upstream activator of the MAPK pathway, also inhibited sclerotial development and MAPK activation, suggesting that a conserved Ras/MAPK pathway is required for sclerotial development. Evidence from bacterial toxins that specifically inhibit the activity of small GTPases, suggested that Rap-1 or Ras is involved in cAMP action. The Rap-1 inhibitor, GGTI-298, restored MAPK activation in the presence of cAMP, further suggesting that Rap-1 is responsible for cAMP-dependent MAPK inhibition. Importantly, inhibition of Rap-1 is able to restore sclerotial development blocked by cAMP. Our results suggest a novel mechanism involving the requirement of Ras/MAPK pathway for sclerotial development that is negatively regulated by a PKA-independent cAMP signalling pathway. Cross-talk between these two pathways is mediated by Rap-1. [source]


Lack of association between BRAF V600E mutation and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation in papillary thyroid carcinoma

PATHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2007
Hui Zuo
The BRAF V600E mutation has been identified in a high proportion of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). In cell lines and a transgenic mouse model it has been demonstrated that the mutation constitutively activates the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway but in human PTC samples its effects remain unexamined. Herein the correlation of BRAF mutation and MAPK activation was examined in 42 human PTC samples. Activating mutations of the BRAF gene and all three RAS genes were detected by polymerase chain reaction-direct sequencing, and RET/PTC1 rearrangements were screened by nested reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction. MAPK activation was assessed by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Twenty-eight cases (66.7%) of BRAF V600E mutation, three cases (7.1%) of RET/PTC1 rearrangement but no cases of RAS genes mutation were identified. Activated MAPK was found in six cases (14.3%) with only two cases of mutant BRAF. In total 7.1% of PTC with BRAF mutation had activated MAPK. Furthermore, BRAF mutations were more prevalent in patients 0e;45 years, but did not correlate with aggressive clinical behaviors. Absence of association between BRAF mutation and activation of MAPK pathway in PTC suggests the presence of mechanisms that downregulate MAPK activation. [source]


Expression of Oryza sativa MAP kinase gene is developmentally regulated and stress-responsive

PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM, Issue 4 2002
Hao-Jen Huang
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are modules involved in the transduction of extracellular signals to intracellular targets in all eukaryotes. In plants, there is evidence for MAPKs playing a role in the signalling of abiotic stresses, pathogens, plant hormones, and cell cycle cues. The large number and divergence of plant MAPKs indicates that this ancient mechanism of signal transduction is extensively used in plants. However, there have been no reports of classical MAPK module in rice. In this report, we have isolated a MAPK from rice (Oryza sativa) termed OsMAPK2. The cloned cDNA is 1457 nucleotides long and the deduced amino acid sequence comprised 369 amino acid residues. Sequence analysis revealed that the predicted amino acid sequence is 72% identical to tobacco wound-induced protein kinase (WIPK). Southern analysis suggested a single OsMAPK2 gene in rice. Analysis at the mRNA level has shown that OsMAPK2 is expressed in all plant organs and high relative amounts of OsMAPK2 were detected in the mature panicles in comparison with in the immature panicles. In suspension-cultured cells, the OsMAPK2 mRNA transcript increased markedly upon temperature downshift from 26°C to 4°C and sucrose starvation. In contrast, the OsMAPK2 mRNA level rapidly declined in rice cell challenged by high temperature. A similarly rapid response of OsMAPK2 was observed in stress-treated seedlings, demonstrating that response of the MAPK pathway occurs also in intact plants. These results suggest that this OsMAPK2 may function in the stress-signalling pathway as well as panicle development in rice. [source]


AKT2 is a downstream target of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (Grm1)

PIGMENT CELL & MELANOMA RESEARCH, Issue 1 2010
Seung-Shick Shin
Summary We reported earlier on the oncogenic properties of Grm1 by demonstrating that stable Grm1 -mouse-melanocytic clones proliferate in the absence of growth supplement and anchorage in vitro. In addition, these clones also exhibit aggressive tumorigenic phenotypes in vivo with short latency in tumor formation in both immunodeficient and syngeneic mice. We also detected strong activation of AKT in allograft tumors specifically AKT2 as the predominant isoform involved. In parallel, we assessed several human melanoma biopsy samples and found again that AKT2 was the predominantly activated AKT in these human melanoma biopsies. In cultured stable Grm1 -mouse-melanocytic clones, as well as an metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (Grm1) expressing human melanoma cell line, C8161, stimulation of Grm1 by its agonist led to the activation of AKT, while preincubation with Grm1-antagonist abolished Grm1-agonist-induced AKT activation. In addition, a reduction in tumor volume of Grm1 -mouse-melanocytic-allografts was detected in the presence of small interfering AKT2 RNA (siAKT2). Taken together, these results showed that, in addition to the MAPK pathway previously reported being a downstream target of stimulated Grm1, AKT2 is another downstream target in Grm1 mediated melanocyte transformation. [source]


Identification of differentially expressed proteins in papillary thyroid carcinomas with V600E mutation of BRAF

PROTEOMICS - CLINICAL APPLICATIONS, Issue 7 2007
Efisio Puxeddu
Abstract BRAF, a serine/threonine kinase of the RAF family, is a downstream transducer of the RAS-regulated MAPK pathway. V600E mutation of BRAF protein is the most common genetic alteration occurring in papillary thyroid carcinomas and is prognostic of poor clinicopathological outcomes. Protein expression in the subclass of PTC bearing the BRAFV600E mutation was investigated by using 2-DE and MS/MS techniques and compared to that of matched normal thyroid tissues from seven patients. 2-D gel image analysis revealed that the expression of eight polypeptide spots, corresponding to five proteins, were significantly underexpressed in PTC bearing BRAFV600E mutation whereas 25 polypeptides, representing 19 distinct proteins, were significantly upregulated in tumour tissue, as compared to normal thyroid. Among the differentially expressed polypeptides, mitochondrial proteins, ROS-scavenger enzymes, apoptosis-related proteins as well as proteins involved in tumour cell proliferation were identified. Although dissimilarities between the present results and those previously reported can be ascribed to the use of different 2-DE techniques, the possibility that BRAFV600E mutation is responsible for changes in protein expression distinct from those induced by other oncogenes cannot be ruled out. [source]


Erythromycin attenuates MUC5AC synthesis and secretion in cultured human tracheal cells infected with RV14

RESPIROLOGY, Issue 2 2008
Daisuke INOUE
Background and objective: The common cold is a major cause of asthma exacerbation and chronic obstructive lung disease. Rhinovirus is reported to be responsible for more than 50% of cases of the common cold. In a previous study, we reported that rhinovirus infection of cultured airway cells induced MUC5AC mucin overproduction and hypersecretion by activating the p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p44/42 MAPK) pathway. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of erythromycin on RV14-induced airway mucin overproduction and hypersecretion. Methods: RV14-infected human tracheal epithelial cells were treated with erythromycin. Results: Erythromycin blocked RV14-induced MUC5AC protein overproduction and hypersecretion, and also blocked RV14-induced p44/42 MAPK activation in the cells. Conclusions: Erythromycin may attenuate RV14-induced MUC5AC overproduction and hypersecretion by blocking the p44/42 MAPK pathway or its upstream regulators. [source]


Dihydrotestosterone activates the MAPK pathway and modulates maximum isometric force through the EGF receptor in isolated intact mouse skeletal muscle fibres

THE JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2010
M. M. Hamdi
It is generally believed that steroid hormones have both genomic and non-genomic (rapid) actions. Although the latter form an important component of the physiological response of these hormones, little is known about the cellular signalling pathway(s) mediating these effects and their physiological functions in adult mammalian skeletal muscle fibres. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to investigate the non-genomic actions of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and their physiological role in isolated intact mammalian skeletal muscle fibre bundles. Our results show that treating the fibre bundles with physiological concentrations of DHT increases both twitch and tetanic contractions in fast twitch fibres. However, it decreases them in slow twitch fibres. These changes in force are accompanied by an increase in the phosphorylation of MAPK/ERK1/2 in both fibre types and that of regulatory myosin light chains in fast twitch fibres. Both effects were insensitive to inhibitors of Src kinase, androgen receptor, insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor and platelet-derived growth factor receptor. However, they were abolished by the MAPK/ERK1/2 kinase inhibitor PD98059 and the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor inhibitor tyrphostin AG 1478. In contrast, testosterone had no effect on force and increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in slow twitch fibres only. From these results we conclude that sex steroids have non-genomic actions in isolated intact mammalian skeletal muscle fibres. These are mediated through the EGF receptor and one of their main physiological functions is the enhancement of force production in fast twitch skeletal muscle fibres. [source]


Chloroplast-generated reactive oxygen species are involved in hypersensitive response-like cell death mediated by a mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade

THE PLANT JOURNAL, Issue 6 2007
Yidong Liu
Summary Plant defense against pathogens often includes rapid programmed cell death known as the hypersensitive response (HR). Recent genetic studies have demonstrated the involvement of a specific mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade consisting of three tobacco MAPKs, SIPK, Ntf4 and WIPK, and their common upstream MAPK kinase (MAPKK or MEK), NtMEK2. Potential upstream MAPKK kinases (MAPKKKs or MEKKs) in this cascade include the orthologs of Arabidopsis MEKK1 and tomato MAPKKK,. Activation of the SIPK/Ntf4/WIPK pathway induces cell death with phenotypes identical to pathogen-induced HR at macroscopic, microscopic and physiological levels, including loss of membrane potential, electrolyte leakage and rapid dehydration. Loss of membrane potential in NtMEK2DD plants is associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is preceded by disruption of metabolic activities in chloroplasts and mitochondria. We observed rapid shutdown of carbon fixation in chloroplasts after SIPK/Ntf4/WIPK activation, which can lead to the generation of ROS in chloroplasts under illumination. Consistent with a role of chloroplast-generated ROS in MAPK-mediated cell death, plants kept in the dark do not accumulate H2O2 in chloroplasts after MAPK activation, and cell death is significantly delayed. Similar light dependency was observed in HR cell death induced by tobacco mosaic virus, which is known to activate the same MAPK pathway in an N -gene-dependent manner. These results suggest that activation of the SIPK/Ntf4/WIPK cascade by pathogens actively promotes the generation of ROS in chloroplasts, which plays an important role in the signaling for and/or execution of HR cell death in plants. [source]


Effect of interleukin-1, on osteogenic protein 1,induced signaling in adult human articular chondrocytes

ARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 1 2009
Amel M. Elshaier
Objective Two major receptor-activated Smad (R-Smad) signaling pathways, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and MAPK, were examined in a model of interleukin-1, (IL-1,),induced cartilage degeneration to investigate the effect of IL-1, on osteogenic protein 1 (OP-1) signaling in adult human articular chondrocytes. Methods Chondrocytes from the ankles of 26 normal human donors were cultured in high-density monolayers in serum-free medium. The effect of IL-1, on BMP receptors was studied by reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry. Phosphorylation of R-Smads was tested in cells treated with IL-1, (10 ng/ml), OP-1 (100 ng/ml), or the combination of IL-1, and OP-1. Cell lysates were analyzed by Western blotting with polyclonal antibodies against 2 R-Smad phosphorylation sites (BMP- and MAPK-mediated) or with total, nonphosphorylated R-Smad as a control. To identify which MAPKs play a role in IL-1, activation of the linker region, chondrocytes were preincubated with specific MAPK inhibitors (PD98059 for MAP/ERK, SP600125 for JNK, and SB203580 for p38). Results IL-1, reduced the number of activin receptor,like kinase 2 (ALK-2) and ALK-3 receptors, inhibited expression of Smad1 and Smad6, delayed and prematurely terminated the onset of OP-1,mediated R-Smad phosphorylation, and affected nuclear translocation of R-Smad/Smad4 complexes. The alternative phosphorylation of R-Smad in the linker region via the MAPK pathway (primarily p38 and JNK) was observed to be a possible mechanism through which IL-1, offsets OP-1 signaling and the response to OP-1. Conversely, OP-1 was found to directly inhibit phosphorylation of p38. Conclusion These findings describe new mechanisms of the crosstalk between OP-1 and IL-1, in chondrocytes. The study also identifies potential targets for therapeutic interventions in the treatment of cartilage-degenerative processes. [source]


Simultaneous signalling through c-mpl, c-kit and CXCR4 enhances the proliferation and differentiation of human megakaryocyte progenitors: possible roles of the PI3-K, PKC and MAPK pathways

BRITISH JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2001
Hitoshi Minamiguchi
We assessed the effect of signalling through CXCR4 on the proliferation and differentiation of human megakaryocytic progenitor cells (CFU-Meg) in the presence or absence of stem cell factor (SCF) and/or thrombopoietin (TPO), using peripheral blood-derived CD34+IL-6R, cells as a target. TPO alone induced a significant number of CFU-Meg colonies. Although stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) or SCF alone did not support CFU-Meg colony formation, these factors had a synergistic effect on CFU-Meg colony formation in the presence of TPO. The combination of SDF-1, SCF and TPO induced twice as many CFU-Meg colonies as TPO alone. To investigate the mechanism of this synergistic action, we examined the effects of various protein kinase inhibitors on CFU-Meg colony formation. LY294002 and GF109203X (inhibitors of PI3-K and PKC respectively) completely or partially inhibited this synergistic action. In contrast, a MEK inhibitor (PD98059) did not inhibit CFU-Meg colony formation. It significantly increased the higher ploidy classes (16N to 64N) of megakaryocytes supported by TPO, TPO + SCF, TPO + SDF-1, and TPO + SCF + SDF-1, whereas it abolished the effect of SDF-1 on the increase of higher ploidy classes of megakaryocytes supported by TPO. These results suggest that MAPK may negatively or positively regulate the nuclear maturation of megakaryocytes, known as endomitosis. In the presence of PD98059, proplatelet formation (PPF) was significantly augmented, suggesting that the MAPK pathway may also inhibit the initiation of PPF. In conclusion, simultaneous activation of three signals through c-mpl, c-kit and CXCR4 can induce the in vitro proliferation and differentiation of CFU-Meg, and SDF-1 is a potentiator of human megakaryocytopoiesis. [source]


Marked changes in signal transduction upon heteromerization of dopamine D1 and histamine H3 receptors

BRITISH JOURNAL OF PHARMACOLOGY, Issue 1 2009
Carla Ferrada
Background and purpose:, Functional interactions between the G protein-coupled dopamine D1 and histamine H3 receptors have been described in the brain. In the present study we investigated the existence of D1,H3 receptor heteromers and their biochemical characteristics. Experimental approach:, D1,H3 receptor heteromerization was studied in mammalian transfected cells with Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer and binding assays. Furthermore, signalling through mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and adenylyl cyclase pathways was studied in co-transfected cells and compared with cells transfected with either D1 or H3 receptors. Key results:, Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer and binding assays confirmed that D1 and H3 receptors can heteromerize. Activation of histamine H3 receptors did not lead to signalling towards the MAPK pathway unless dopamine D1 receptors were co-expressed. Also, dopamine D1 receptors, usually coupled to Gs proteins and leading to increases in cAMP, did not couple to Gs but to Gi in co-transfected cells. Furthermore, signalling via each receptor was blocked not only by a selective antagonist but also by an antagonist of the partner receptor. Conclusions and implications:, D1,H3 receptor heteromers constitute unique devices that can direct dopaminergic and histaminergic signalling towards the MAPK pathway in a Gs -independent and Gi -dependent manner. An antagonist of one of the receptor units in the D1,H3 receptor heteromer can induce conformational changes in the other receptor unit and block specific signals originating in the heteromer. This gives rise to unsuspected therapeutic potentials for G protein-coupled receptor antagonists. [source]


Simulated microgravity activates MAPK pathways in fibroblasts cultured on microgrooved surface topography

CYTOSKELETON, Issue 2 2008
W. A. Loesberg
Abstract This study evaluated in vitro the differences in morphological behaviour between fibroblast cultured on smooth and microgrooved substrata (groove depth: 0.5 ,m, width: 1 ,m), which were subjected to simulated microgravity. The aim of the study was to clarify which of these parameters was more dominant to determine cell behaviour. Morphological characteristics were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy in order to obtain qualitative information on cell alignment. Expression of collagen type I, and ,1-, ,1-, ,3-integrin were investigated by QPCR. Finally, immunoblotting was applied to visualise MAPK signalling pathways. Microscopy and image analysis showed that the fibroblasts aligned along the groove direction on all textured surfaces. On the smooth substrata, cells had spread out in a random fashion. The alignment of cells cultured on grooved surfaces under simulated microgravity, after 48 h of culturing appeared similar to those cultured at 1g, although cell shape was different. Analysis of variance proved that all main parameters: topography, gravity force, and time were significant. In addition, gene levels were reduced by simulated microgravity particularly those of ,3-integrin and collagen, however alpha-1 and beta-1 integrin levels were up-regulated. ERK1/2 was reduced in RPM, however, JNK/SAPK and p38 remained active. The members of the small GTPases family were stimulated under microgravity, particularly RhoA and Cdc42. The results are in agreement that application of microgravity to fibroblasts promotes a change in their morphological appearance and their expression of cell-substratum proteins through the MAPK intracellular signalling pathways. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Mitogen-activated protein kinase signal transduction in skeletal muscle: effects of exercise and muscle contraction

ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 3 2001
U. Widegren
Exercise has numerous growth and metabolic effects in skeletal muscle, including changes in glycogen metabolism, glucose and amino acid uptake, protein synthesis and gene transcription. However, the mechanism(s) by which exercise regulates intracellular signal transduction to the transcriptional machinery in the nucleus, thus modulating gene expression, is largely unknown. This review will provide insight on potential intracellular signalling mechanisms by which muscle contraction/exercise leads to changes in gene expression. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are associated with increased transcriptional activity. The MAPK family members can be separated into distinct parallel pathways including the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, the stress-activated protein kinase cascades (SAPK1/JNK and SAPK2/p38) and the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5). Acute exercise elicits signal transduction via MAPK cascades in direct response to muscle contraction. Thus, MAPK pathways appear to be potential physiological mechanisms involved in the exercise-induced regulation of gene expression in skeletal muscle. [source]


Role of mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades in P2Y receptor-mediated trophic activation of astroglial cells ,

DRUG DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH, Issue 2-3 2001
Joseph T. Neary
Abstract The trophic actions of extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides on astroglial cells in the central nervous system may be important in development as well as injury and repair. Here we summarize recent findings on the signal transduction mechanisms and gene expression that mediate the trophic effects of extracellular ATP on astrocyte cultures, with a particular emphasis on mitogenesis. Activation of ATP/P2Y receptors leads to the stimulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, which play a crucial role in cellular proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Inhibition of ERK and p38, members of two distinct MAPK cascades, interferes with the ability of extracellular ATP to stimulate astrocyte proliferation, thereby indicating their importance in mitogenic signaling by P2Y receptors. Signaling from P2Y receptors to ERK involves phospholipase D and a calcium-independent protein kinase C isoform, PKC; this pathway is independent of the phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C / calcium pathway which is also coupled to P2Y receptors. Pharmacological studies suggest that astrocytes may express an as-yet uncloned P2Y receptor that recruits a novel MEK activator in the ERK cascade. Extracellular ATP can also potentiate fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2-induced proliferation, and studies on interactions between ATP and FGF-2 signaling pathways have revealed that although ATP does not activate cRaf-1, the first protein kinase in the ERK cascade, it can reduce cRaf-1 activation by FGF-2. As intermediate levels of Raf activity stimulate the cell cycle, the partial inhibition of FGF-induced Raf activity by ATP may contribute to the enhancing effect of ATP on FGF-2-induced astrocyte proliferation. Activation of P2Y receptors also leads to nuclear signaling, and the use of DNA arrays has shown that treatment of astrocytes with extracellular ATP results in the up- and downregulation of a number of genes; studies to determine which of these genes are regulated by MAPKs are now in progress. Elucidation of the components of MAPK pathways linked to P2Y receptors and subsequent changes in gene expression may provide targets for a new avenue of drug development aimed at the management of astrogliosis which occurs in many types of neurological disorders and neurodegeneration. Drug Dev. Res. 53:158,165, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


Expression of immediate early gene pip92 during anisomycin-induced cell death is mediated by the JNK- and p38-dependent activation of Elk1

FEBS JOURNAL, Issue 15 2000
Kwang C. Chung
We report here that immediate early gene pip92 is expressed during anisomycin-induced cell death in fibroblast NIH3T3 cells. To determine the mechanism by which this occurs and to identify downstream signaling pathways, we investigated the induction of the pip92 promoter. The activation of pip92 by anisomycin is mediated by the activation of MAP kinases, such as JNK and p38 kinase, but not ERK. Deletion analysis of the pip92 promoter indicated that pip92 activation occurs primarily within the region containing a serum response element (SRE). Further analysis of the SRE using a heterologous thymidine kinase promoter showed that both an Ets and CArG-like site are required for anisomycin-induced pip92 expression. Elk1, which binds to the Ets site, was phosphorylated by the JNK- and p38-dependent pathways and the phosphorylation of Elk1,GAL4 fusion proteins by these pathways was sufficient for the transactivation. Overall, this study suggested that different MAPK pathways are involved in the expression of immediate early gene pip92 by growth factors and environmental stresses. [source]