US Patent 7202049 Mitogen-activated protein kinase p38-2 and methods of use therefor

Compositions and methods are provided for the treatment of diseases associated with mitogen activated protein kinase cascades. In particular, the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38-2, and polypeptide variants thereof that stimulate phosphorylation and activation of substrates such as ATF2, are provided. The polypeptides may be used, for example, to identify antibodies and other agents that inhibit or activate signal transduction via the p38-2 kinase cascade. Such polypeptides and agents may also be used for the treatment of diseases associated with mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades.