Functional roles of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses

Mediators Inflamm. 2014:2014:352371. doi: 10.1155/2014/352371. Epub 2014 Mar 20.

Abstract

Inflammation is a natural host defensive process that is largely regulated by macrophages during the innate immune response. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are proline-directed serine and threonine protein kinases that regulate many physiological and pathophysiological cell responses. p38 MAPKs are key MAPKs involved in the production of inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). p38 MAPK signaling plays an essential role in regulating cellular processes, especially inflammation. In this paper, we summarize the characteristics of p38 signaling in macrophage-mediated inflammation. In addition, we discuss the potential of using inhibitors targeting p38 expression in macrophages to treat inflammatory diseases.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / pathology*
  • Lipopolysaccharides / chemistry
  • MAP Kinase Signaling System / drug effects
  • Macrophages / cytology*
  • Plant Extracts / chemistry
  • Signal Transduction
  • p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Plant Extracts
  • p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases