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Requirement for MAPK activation for normal mitotic progression in Xenopus egg extracts

T M Guadagno1, J E Ferrell

  • 1Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5332, USA.

Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 13, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is crucial for maintaining mitosis. Its activator, MEK, and MAPK ensure proper mitotic progression and microtubule formation in Xenopus egg extracts.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is essential for meiotic M phase progression in Xenopus oocytes.
  • The role of MAPK in somatic cell mitosis remains less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the function of p42 MAPK in normal mitotic progression.
  • To determine if MAPK signaling is involved in regulating the mitotic state.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized cycling Xenopus egg extracts.
  • Employed immunodepletion of MEK (MAPK activator).
  • Used the MEK inhibitor PD98059.

Main Results:

  • MAPK was transiently activated during mitosis, downstream of Cdc2-cyclin B.
  • Inhibiting MEK or MAPK led to premature mitotic termination and abnormal microtubule formation.
  • Sustained MAPK activation caused mitotic arrest independent of Cdc2-cyclin B.

Conclusions:

  • MEK and MAPK play a critical role in maintaining the mitotic state.
  • MAPK signaling is essential for proper mitotic progression and microtubule dynamics.

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