Overview:

p38γ is a member of the p38 MAPK family which is activated in response to stress (1). p38γ gene was mapped to 22q13.3 and functions as a signal transducer during differentiation of myoblasts to myotubes. Enforced localization of p38γ in the nucleus or cytoplasm markedly attenuates the ability of the kinase to induce cell cycle arrest in fibroblasts. p38γ increases basal glucose uptake and decreases DNP- and contraction-stimulated glucose uptake, partially by affecting levels of glucose transporter expression in skeletal muscle (2).

References:

1. Li, Z. et al: The primary structure of p38-gamma: a new member of p38 group of MAP kinases. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 228: 334-340, 1996.

2. Ho, RC. et al: p38gamma MAPK regulation of glucose transporter expression and glucose uptake in L6 myotubes and mouse skeletal muscle. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2004 Feb; 286(2):R342-9. Epub 2003 Oct 30.