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MEF2 signaling and human diseases

Xiao Chen1,2, Bing Gao1,3, Murugavel Ponnusamy2

  • 1School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China.

Oncotarget
|January 18, 2018
PubMed

Insights

The myocyte Enhancer Factor 2 (MEF2) protein family, once thought only for heart and muscle, is now linked to human diseases. This review explores the molecular mechanisms of MEF2 in disease development.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2 (MEF2) proteins traditionally linked to cardiac and skeletal muscle development.
  • Emerging evidence implicates MEF2 family in the pathogenesis of diverse human diseases.
  • The precise molecular mechanisms of MEF2 in disease remain largely unelucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and consolidate the current understanding of MEF2 family's molecular mechanisms in human disease.
  • To highlight the involvement of MEF2 in various cellular signaling pathways relevant to disease.
  • To discuss the regulatory roles of microRNAs on MEF2 activity in disease contexts.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating MEF2 protein family.
  • Analysis of MEF2 involvement in key signaling pathways (e.g., Ca2+, MAP kinase, Wnt, PI3K/Akt).
  • Examination of microRNA-mediated regulation of MEF2 in disease.

Main Results:

  • MEF2 proteins are implicated in the development and progression of numerous human diseases.
  • MEF2 proteins interact with and modulate critical signaling cascades.
  • MicroRNAs play a significant role in regulating MEF2 function in disease.

Conclusions:

  • The MEF2 family represents a crucial link between fundamental biological processes and human pathology.
  • Understanding MEF2-mediated molecular mechanisms is vital for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research into MEF2 signaling and its regulation is warranted for disease intervention.
Keywords:
MEF2human diseasesmicroRNAssignaling pathway

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