MK2 nonenzymatically promotes nuclear translocation of caspase-3 and resultant apoptosis.

We have previously identified mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) is required for caspase-3 nuclear translocation in the execution of apoptosis; however, little is known of the underlying mechanisms. Therefore, we sought to determine the role of kinase and nonkinase functions of MK2 in promoting nuclear translocation of caspase-3. We identified two non-small cell lung cancer cell lines for use in these experiments based on low MK2 expression.

Tumor MK2 transcript levels are associated with improved response to chemotherapy and patient survival in non-small cell lung cancer.

Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) demonstrate intrinsic resistance to cell death, even after chemotherapy. Previous work suggested defective nuclear translocation of active caspase-3 in observed resistance to cell death. We have identified mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2; encoded by the gene ) is required for caspase-3 nuclear translocation in the execution of apoptosis in endothelial cells.