Extracellular signals and scores of phosphatases: all roads lead to MAP kinase

Abstract

MAP kinases function as key signal integration points for a vast number of external stimuli that affect the life and death of cells and are therefore subject to rigorous regulation. Here we review the numerous protein phosphatases that directly counteract MAP kinase activation. To simplify the complexity, we attempt to integrate the information into a 'sequential phosphatase model' of MAP kinase regulation.