Introduction: The extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) signaling pathway is a key regulator of cellular responses to exercise stimuli, influencing processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and adaptation. Different types of exercise modalities, including endurance training, resistance exercise, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), can impact the activation and modulation of the ERK/MAPK pathway. This review study aims to investigate the influence of exercise type on the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway, exploring how various forms of exercise may modulate this critical pathway for cellular adaptation.
Methodology: A systematic review of literature examining the effects of different exercise types on the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway was conducted. Peer-reviewed articles were identified through comprehensive searches of electronic databases, focusing on studies that investigated the molecular responses of the ERK/MAPK pathway to endurance training, resistance exercise, HIIT, and other exercise modalities. Data extraction and analysis were performed to evaluate the activation levels, downstream targets, and adaptations within the ERK/MAPK pathway in response to different types of exercise.
Results: The review revealed that distinct exercise modalities can influence the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway in unique ways. Endurance training has been associated with increased ERK phosphorylation, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and aerobic adaptations. Resistance exercise has shown to activate ERK signaling, leading to muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. HIIT interventions have demonstrated effects on ERK activation, enhancing metabolic responses and performance improvements.
Conclusions: Different types of exercise elicit specific responses within the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway, contributing to diverse cellular adaptations in response to physical activity. Understanding how exercise modulates this pathway is essential for tailoring training programs to target specific molecular mechanisms underlying cellular adaptation and performance enhancement. By optimizing exercise prescriptions based on the desired molecular responses within the ERK/MAPK pathway, individuals can enhance their fitness outcomes and overall health.