The activation of stress kinases, such as p38 MAPK, is believed to be detrimental to normal cellular processes. However, Umut Ozcan and his colleagues now show that p38 MAPK is actually beneficial, as in mice it increases the mRNA stability and nuclear localization of Xbp1s, a crucial factor in resolving endoplasmic reticulum stress and improving glucose homeostasis. These results suggest a possible indirect way of targeting XBP1s in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
- Jaemin Lee
- Cheng Sun
- Umut Ozcan
