MAPK signalling in cellular metabolism: stress or wellness?

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling occurs in response to almost any change in the extracellular or intra-cellular milieu that affects the metabolism of the cell, organ or the entire organism. MAPK-dependent signal transduction is required for physiological metabolic adaptation, but inappropriate MAPK signalling contributes to the development of several interdependent pathological traits, collectively known as metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome leads to life-threatening clinical consequences, such as type 2 diabetes. This Review provides an overview of the MAPK-signalling mechanisms that underly basic cellular metabolism, discussing their link to disease.