MAPKs play a critical role in regulating inflammation, a response often exploited by toxicants to induce tissue damage. Activation of MAPKs leads to the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. For instance, the NF-κB pathway, which is regulated by MAPKs, controls the expression of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6. This links MAPK activity to inflammatory diseases and conditions resulting from toxic exposure.
