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ERK signalling: a master regulator of cell behaviour, life and fate

Hugo Lavoie1, Jessica Gagnon1, Marc Therrien2,3

  • 1Laboratory of Intracellular Signalling, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.

Nature Reviews. Molecular Cell Biology
|June 25, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) are crucial signaling proteins regulating fundamental cellular processes. Their dysregulation is linked to human diseases, highlighting their importance in cell biology and medicine.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular Biology
  • Molecular Signaling
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) are key downstream effectors in signaling pathways initiated by RAS GTPases.
  • These kinases regulate diverse cellular functions by phosphorylating numerous substrates, impacting growth and mitogenic signals.
  • Aberrant ERK signaling is implicated in various human diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of the current understanding of ERK1 and ERK2.
  • To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms, substrate interactions, and cellular roles of ERK1/2.
  • To discuss the impact of ERK signaling on fundamental cellular processes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on ERK1/2.
  • Analysis of structural and regulatory aspects of ERK1/2.
  • Systematic discussion of ERK signaling in cellular processes.

Main Results:

  • ERK1/2 are involved in regulating cell proliferation, survival, growth, metabolism, migration, and differentiation.
  • Understanding ERK regulation, substrate recognition, and localization is critical.
  • ERK signaling pathways are conserved across metazoans.

Conclusions:

  • ERK1/2 play a central role in governing essential cellular activities.
  • Further research into ERK1/2 mechanisms is vital for understanding and treating diseases.
  • This review consolidates knowledge on ERK signaling for researchers in cell biology and medicine.

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