Synthetic peptide corresponding to residues near the C-terminus of rat p44 MAP kinase. Species sequence homology: chicken (100%)
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are a widely conserved family of serine/threonine protein kinases involved in many cellular programs such as cell proliferation, differentiation, motility, and death. The p44/42 MAPK (Erk1/2) signaling pathway can be activated in response to a diverse range of extracellular stimuli including mitogens, growth factors, and cytokines (1-3) and is an important target in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer (4). Upon stimulation, a sequential three-part protein kinase cascade is initiated, consisting of a MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAPKKK or MAP3K), a MAP kinase kinase (MAPKK or MAP2K), and a MAP kinase (MAPK). Multiple p44/42 MAP3Ks have been identified, including members of the Raf family as well as Mos and Tpl2/Cot. MEK1 and MEK2 are the primary MAPKKs in this pathway (5,6). MEK1 and MEK2 activate p44 and p42 through phosphorylation of activation loop residues Thr202/Tyr204 and Thr185/Tyr187, respectively. Several downstream targets of p44/42 have been identified, including p90RSK (7) and the transcription factor Elk-1 (8,9). p44/42 are negatively regulated by a family of dual-specificity (Thr/Tyr) MAPK phosphatases, known as DUSPs or MKPs (10), along with MEK inhibitors such as U0126 and PD98059. Applications: Suitable for use in Flow Cytometry. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Flow Cytometry: 1:50. Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4C before opening. DO NOT FREEZE! Stable at 4C as an undiluted liquid. Dilute only prior to immediate use. Stable for 12 months at 4C. Freezing Alexa Fluor conjugates will result in a substantial loss of activity. Alexa Fluor conjugates are sensitive to light.