Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) is a versatile protein kinase that regulates many cellular functions. Growing evidence suggests that ERK1/2 plays a crucial role in promoting cell death in a variety of neuronal systems, including neurodegenerative diseases. It is believed that the magnitude and the duration of ERK1/2 activity determine its cellular function. In this review, we summarize recent evidence for a role of ERK1/2 in neuronal death. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms involved in ERK1/2 mediating neuronal death.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cell Death / physiology*
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Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases / physiology*
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Humans
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Ischemia / enzymology
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Ischemia / pathology
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MAP Kinase Signaling System
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Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1 / physiology
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Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3 / physiology
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Models, Neurological
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Nerve Degeneration / enzymology
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Nerve Degeneration / etiology
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Nerve Degeneration / pathology
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Neurodegenerative Diseases / enzymology
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Neurodegenerative Diseases / etiology
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Neurodegenerative Diseases / pathology
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Neurons / enzymology*
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Neurons / pathology*
Substances
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Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases
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Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1
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Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3