Functional Roles of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase in Macrophage-Mediated Inflammatory Responses

Abstract EN

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.