Related Experiment Videos
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
Abstract:
Inflammatory mediators released during acute and chronic diseases activate multiple intracellular signalling cascades including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathway, which plays a significant role in the recruitment of leukocytes to sites of inflammation. Stimulation of leukocytes by pro-inflammatory cytokines is known to result in the activation of the MAPK isoform p38. However, the functional consequences of p38 MAPK activation during leukocyte recruitment, including adhesion, migration and effector functions such as oxidative burst and degranulation, are only just beginning to be elucidated. Specific p38 inhibitors aimed at reducing the production of inflammatory mediators are now being developed, and might in the future provide more effective treatment for inflammatory diseases.
Insights
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.