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p38 MAPK signalling cascades in inflammatory disease.
1Respiratory Diseases Therapeutic Area, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Novartis Horsham Research Centre, Wimblehurst Road, Horsham, UK RH12 5AB. ellen.herlar@pharma.novartis.com
Molecular Medicine Today
|September 28, 1999
Summary
Inflammatory diseases activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, specifically p38. Understanding p38
Area of Science:
- Cellular signaling pathways
- Immunology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Inflammatory mediators trigger intracellular signaling cascades, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.
- The MAPK pathway is crucial for leukocyte recruitment to inflammatory sites.
- Pro-inflammatory cytokines activate the p38 MAPK isoform in leukocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the functional consequences of p38 MAPK activation during leukocyte recruitment.
- To investigate the role of p38 MAPK in leukocyte adhesion, migration, and effector functions.
Main Methods:
- The study focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying p38 MAPK activation and its downstream effects.
- Research involves analyzing leukocyte recruitment, adhesion, migration, and effector functions (oxidative burst, degranulation).
Main Results:
- p38 MAPK activation influences key aspects of leukocyte recruitment.
- The precise functional outcomes of p38 MAPK in leukocyte adhesion, migration, and effector functions are under investigation.
Conclusions:
- p38 MAPK plays a significant role in inflammatory responses involving leukocyte recruitment.
- Specific p38 inhibitors are being developed for potential therapeutic applications in inflammatory diseases.