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The MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Colorectal Cancer: Recent Advances and Emerging Insights
Mehran Molavand1,2, Amir Valizadeh1,3, Bahman Yousefi1
1Department of clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical science, Tabriz, Iran.
Current Molecular Medicine
|May 19, 2026
Summary
Colorectal cancer (CRC) progression involves the MAPK/ERK pathway, crucial for cell growth and drug resistance. Understanding KRAS and BRAF mutations aids in developing targeted CRC therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Signaling
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality, with aging as a primary risk factor.
- Aberrant activation of oncogenic pathways, including MAPK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and Notch, is common in CRC.
- The MAPK/ERK pathway regulates critical cellular processes and is frequently altered in CRC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway in colorectal cancer progression.
- To explore the potential of targeting the MAPK/ERK pathway for novel CRC therapies.
- To highlight the significance of KRAS and BRAF mutations as predictive markers for treatment response in CRC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of molecular profiling studies in CRC.
- Analysis of the impact of MAPK/ERK pathway alterations on CRC development.
- Integration of recent insights into signaling pathways and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- ERK hyperactivity in CRC is linked to increased proliferation, stem-cell maintenance, drug resistance, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
- Specific mutations in KRAS and BRAF within the MAPK/ERK pathway are frequently observed.
- KRAS and BRAF mutation status can predict patient response to certain therapies.
Conclusions:
- The MAPK/ERK pathway plays a pivotal role in multiple facets of colorectal cancer progression.
- Targeting the MAPK/ERK pathway, informed by KRAS/BRAF mutation status, holds significant promise for personalized CRC treatment.
- Further understanding of ERK signaling is essential for advancing effective CRC therapies.
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