How do MAPK pathways relate to toxicological responses?
MAPK pathways are involved in cellular responses to a wide range of environmental toxins and stressors. They can modulate the expression of genes involved in detoxification, apoptosis, and inflammatory responses. For example, exposure to heavy metals, such as cadmium, can activate the JNK and p38 pathways, leading to increased expression of stress response genes. Similarly, the ERK pathway can be activated by various mutagens and pro-inflammatory agents.
