Emerging role of mitogen-activated protein kinases in peripheral neuropathies

Among the different families of intracellular molecules that can be modulated during cell damage and repair, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are particularly interesting because they are involved in several intracellular pathways activated by injury and regeneration signals. Despite most of the studies have been performed in non-neurological models, recently a causal role for MAPKs has been postulated in central nervous system disorders. However, also in some peripheral neuropathies, MAPK changes can occur and these modifications might be relevant in the pathogenesis of the damage as well as during regeneration and repair. In this review, the current knowledge on the role of MAPKs in peripheral neuropathies will be discussed.