What is extracellular signal-regulated kinase?

Extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) are a family of signaling molecules that play a critical role in regulating various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and migration. They are activated by a variety of extracellular signals, such as growth factors and cytokines, that bind to cell surface receptors and initiate a signaling cascade that ultimately leads to the activation of ERK. Once activated, ERKs translocate to the nucleus and phosphorylate a variety of substrates, including transcription factors, leading to changes in gene expression and cellular behavior. Dysregulation of ERK signaling has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. ERK inhibitors are being developed as targeted therapeutics for these diseases.