Kinase

MAPK/ERK pathway

Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase

Cell biology

Biology

MAP kinase kinase kinase

Signal transduction

Protein kinase A

Mitogen-activated protein kinase

Physics

Cyclin-dependent kinase 2

Optics

ASK1

MAP2K7

Crosstalk

MAPK cascade

c-Raf

Frontiers in Plant Science

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) modules play key roles in the transduction of environmental and developmental signals through phosphorylation of downstream signaling targets, including other kinases, enzymes, cytoskeletal proteins or transcription factors, in all eukaryotic cells. A typical MAPK cascade consists of at least three sequentially acting serine/threonine kinases, a MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAPKKK), a MAP kinase kinase (MAPKK) and finally, the MAP kinase (MAPK) itself, with each phosphorylating, and hence activating, the next kinase in the cascade. Recent advances in our understanding of hormone signaling pathways have led to the discovery of new regulatory systems. In particular, this research has revealed the emerging role of crosstalk between the protein components of various signaling pathways and the involvement of this crosstalk in multiple cellular processes. Here we provide an overview of current models and mechanisms of hormone signaling with a special emphasis on the role of MAPKs in cell signaling networks. One-sentence summary: In this review we highlight the mechanisms of crosstalk between MAPK cascades and plant hormone signaling pathways and summarize recent findings on MAPK regulation and function in various cellular processes.

Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Cascades in Plant Hormone Signaling