Anti-MAP Kinase p44/42, (Erk1/2) (MAPK, Erk1/2, Extracellular Signal Regulated Kinase 1/2) (Alexa Fl

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 4°C before opening. DO NOT FREEZE! Stable at 4°C as an undiluted liquid. Dilute only prior to immediate use. Stable for 12 months at 4°C. Freezing Alexa Fluor(R) conjugates will result in a substantial loss of activity. Alexa Fluor(R) conjugates are sensitive to light.