FIG. 2.

Activation of p38 MAPK and JNK is independent of oxidative stress and caspase-3 activation. HeLa cells were preincubated with a general caspase inhibitor (zVAD.fmk) or an antioxidant NAC for 30 min and then infected with CVB3 (MOI = 10). One hour later, cells were washed with PBS and replenished with serum-free medium containing fresh inhibitor or antioxidant. Seven hours later, cell lysates were examined for phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and JNK and expression of p38 MAPK and JNK. β-actin was probed as the loading control. Similar results were obtained in two independent experiments. DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide. p-, phospho-.