Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway

The Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) pathway is a series of molecular events inside cells that transmit signals from the cell surface to the DNA in the nucleus. It helps cells respond to external cues like growth factors, stress, or injury by controlling processes such as cell growth, division, and survival. When a signal is received, proteins called kinases activate each other in sequence, amplifying the message. This pathway is essential for normal cell function, but if it malfunctions, it can contribute to diseases like cancer by causing uncontrolled cell growth.