Dear Colleagues,

Stress protein kinases are fundamental for many biological processes mediating the response of the cell to internal or external changes. A cell under stress uses the biological machinery, engaging programs to overcome challenging situations. However, if the stress signal persists or becomes too strong, a new program is initiated, leading to cell death. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes in the parent cell by half and produces four gamete cells, each genetically distinct from the parent cell, thus increasing genetic variability. At first glance, it might seem that meiosis and apoptosis (or programmed cell death) are two completely different biological phenomena. However, meiosis in yeast (sporulation) requires that the cells be deprived of at least one essential nutrient, the presence of a non-fermentable carbon source, and the absence of glucose. Therefore, meiosis in this unicellular organism is a response to a stress situation, an adaptation to an unfavorable nutritional environment through an increase in genetic variability and the protection of its genetic material within the walls of the spore. Several authors have also suggested that cell cycle regulation is a general response to stress that is essential for cell survival. Importantly, meiosis and cell death are irreversible processes regulated by ultrasensitive sensors and signaling circuits that include multiple positive feedback loops. Functioning as sensors and switches, the stress protein kinases play a critical role in the regulation of cell fate decisions.

In this Special Issue of IJMS, we will address the role of stress protein kinases (e.g., AMPK, JNK, p38, but also other protein kinases and phosphatases) in apoptosis or meiosis. Stress protein kinases can have pro- or anti-apoptotic properties, and can regulate meiosis at different stages by using different mechanisms depending of the stimuli and the species considered. We will consider all reports, without restrictions in the animal or cellular model used. We encourage researchers to contribute experimental papers or review articles.

Prof. Dr. José Manuel López Blanco
Guest Editor

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• stress protein kinases
• apoptosis
• meiosis
• p38
• JNK
• AMPK
• ERK
• cell signaling
• cell death mechanisms
• oocytes