MicroRNAs as regulators of ERK/MAPK pathway: A comprehensive review

The ERK/MAPK cascade is one the four distinctive MAPK cascades which transmit extracellular signals to intracellular targets. This cascade has an important role in the regulation of several fundamental processes such as proliferation, differentiation and cell response to diverse extrinsic stresses. Moreover, several studies have shown participation of this cascade in the pathogenesis of cancer. Recent investigations have unraveled interaction between microRNAs (miRNAs) and ERK/MAPK cascade. These transcripts reside in both upstream and downstream of this cascade, regulating or being regulated by ERK/MAPK proteins. In the current review, we summarize the role of miRNAs in the regulation of ERK/MAPK and their contribution in the pathogenesis of human disorders with particular focus on cancers.