Functions of p38 MAP Kinases in the Central Nervous System

Prita Asih, Emmanuel Prikas, Kristie Stefanoska, Amanda R.P. Tan, Holly I. Ahel, Arne Ittner

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

103 Citations (Scopus)
117 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are a central component in signaling networks in a multitude of mammalian cell types. This review covers recent advances on specific functions of p38 MAP kinases in cells of the central nervous system. Unique and specific functions of the four mammalian p38 kinases are found in all major cell types in the brain. Mechanisms of p38 activation and downstream phosphorylation substrates in these different contexts are outlined and how they contribute to functions of p38 in physiological and under disease conditions. Results in different model organisms demonstrated that p38 kinases are involved in cognitive functions, including functions related to anxiety, addiction behavior, neurotoxicity, neurodegeneration, and decision making. Finally, the role of p38 kinases in psychiatric and neurological conditions and the current progress on therapeutic inhibitors targeting p38 kinases are covered and implicate p38 kinases in a multitude of CNS-related physiological and disease states.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)570-586
Number of pages27
JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience
Volume13
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Sept 2020
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • astrocyte
  • central nervous system
  • microglia
  • mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase p38
  • neuron
  • oligodendrocyte
  • signal transduction

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Functions of p38 MAP Kinases in the Central Nervous System'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this