Figure 7: Schematic representation of MAPK-dependent apoptosis in G. intestinalis-infected HCT-8 cells. Phosphorylation of both p38 MAPK and JNK increased after exposure to the viable trophozoites, leading to cell apoptosis through caspase-3 activation (right). Specific inhibition of p38 MAPK and JNK impaired caspase-3 activation, ensuring cell survival (left). SP600125 and SB203580 are specific inhibitors of JNK and p38 phosphorylation, respectively.