A dual role of Erk signaling in embryonic stem cells

Exp Hematol. 2016 Mar;44(3):151-6. doi: 10.1016/j.exphem.2015.12.008. Epub 2016 Jan 2.

Abstract

Erk signaling plays a critical role in maintaining the pluripotency of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Inhibition of Mek/Erk signaling by pharmacologic Mek inhibitor promotes self-renewal and pluripotency of mouse ESCs. However, knockout of Erk1/2 genes compromises the self-renewal and genomic stability of mouse ESCs. In this review, we summarize recent progress in understanding the role of Erk signaling in pluripotency maintenance, discuss the dual role of Erk in mouse ESCs, and provide explanations for the conflicting data regarding Mek inhibition and Erk knockout. Remaining questions and the prospects of Erk signaling in pluripotency maintenance are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Genomic Instability*
  • MAP Kinase Signaling System / physiology*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3 / genetics
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3 / metabolism*
  • Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells / enzymology*

Substances

  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3