Recombinant human MLK3 protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

MLK3 also known as MEKK11 is a kinase widely expressed in human tissues. This protein with a molecular mass of approximately 97 kDa functions as a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K). MLK3 mechanically activates the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAP kinase pathways by phosphorylating downstream MAP2Ks. It is involved in various cell processes including apoptosis and inflammation.

Biological function summary

MLK3 plays a critical role in cellular response to stress and inflammation. It acts as part of a signaling complex that regulates the JNK and p38 pathways key mediators in immune responses. These pathways control the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the cellular stress response. Through its kinase activity MLK3 supports the activation of transcription factors such as AP-1 which drive gene expression changes needed for its biological functions.

Pathways

MLK3 is intricately involved in the MAPK signaling cascade. It connects with other MAP3Ks like MLK1 and MLK2 contributing to the complexity of MAPK signaling. MLK3’s participation in the JNK and p38 pathways links it to cytokine signaling and cellular stress responses. These pathways are significant for maintaining cellular homeostasis and coordinating responses to external stimuli.

MLK3 has implications in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In cancer MLK3 modulates pathways that influence cell proliferation and survival potentially leading to tumor growth and metastasis when dysregulated. Similarly altered MLK3 signaling is observed in neurodegenerative diseases possibly due to its role in managing cellular stress. MLK3 interacts with proteins like JNK and p38 which are important in disease mechanisms and progression.