Overview:

RAF1 is a MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K), which functions downstream of the Ras family of membrane associated GTPases to which it binds directly (1). The activated RAF1 can phosphorylate and activate the dual specificity protein kinases MEK1 and MEK2, which in turn phosphorylate to activate the serine/threonine specific protein kinases ERK1 and ERK2. Activated ERKs are pleiotropic effectors of cell physiology and play an important role in the control of gene expression involved in the cell division cycle, apoptosis, cell differentiation and cell migration (2).

Gene Aliases:

None

Genbank Number:

NM_002880

References:

1. Rapp, U. et al: Structure and biological activity of v-raf, a unique oncogene transduced by a retrovirus. Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. 80: 4218-4222, 1983.

2. Li, P. et al: Raf-1: a kinase currently without a cause but not lacking in effects. Cell 64: 479-482, 1991.