Similar to the ERK1/2 pathway, dysregulation of the p38 MAPK levels has also been reported in a variety of malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, bladder cancer etc. Although the p38 MAPK acts as a regulator of cell death, it can also mediate cell survival depending upon the type of stimulus in a cell type-specific manner. This evidence concerns the gene MAPK3 and hepatocellular carcinoma.