How Does the Pathway Influence Cellular Functions?
The RAS-MAPK pathway regulates a multitude of cellular functions. Activated ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) translocates to the nucleus, where it phosphorylates transcription factors that influence gene expression. This results in the regulation of cell cycle progression, differentiation, and survival. For example, in neural tissue, this pathway is essential for the differentiation of neurons and glial cells.
