MAPK8 is a key mediator in cellular responses induced by extracellular signals. MAPK8s are involved in a spectrum of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Loss-of-function studies show MAPK8 has essential roles in modulating immune cell function, development of the nervous system, and functions in the CNS (Yarza et al, 2016).
Since MAPK8s play a fundamental role in regulating key biological processes, it is not surprising that aberrant MAPK8 is associated with cancer. MAPK8 activation was often reported in multiple cancer cell lines and patient tissue samples (Kennedy et al, 2003). However, studies have also found that MAPK8 acts as a tumor suppressor for certain forms of cancer and tumor microenvironments. Because of these correlations, MAPK8 has become an attractive therapeutic target for cancer treatments (Bubici et al, 2014).
Transcreener ADP² MAPK8 Assay is an excellent tool for researchers examining therapeutic effects of MAPK8 inhibitors.