MAP Kinases, or Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases, are a group of proteins that play a crucial role in cellular signaling. They help transmit signals from the cell surface to the nucleus, influencing various cellular processes such as growth, differentiation, and response to stress. MAP Kinases are activated by a series of phosphorylation events, which are often triggered by external stimuli like growth factors or environmental stress. There are three main types of MAP Kinases: ERK, JNK, and p38. Each type has distinct functions and is activated by different pathways. For example, ERK is primarily involved in cell proliferation, while JNK and p38 are more associated with stress responses and inflammation. Understanding MAP Kinases is essential for developing therapies for diseases like cancer and inflammatory disorders.