MAP3K12 (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase 12), also known as DLK (dual leucine zipper kinase), is a member of the MAP kinase kinase kinase family. It consists of a kinase domain and two leucine zipper domains, primarily located in the cytoplasm. MAP3K12 plays a crucial role in cellular stress response, neuronal development, and apoptosis, regulating cell stress response and survival by activating the JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. The expression of MAP3K12 is specific in different tissues and cells, and mutations or dysregulation in its gene expression are associated with neurodegenerative diseases, muscle development disorders, and cancer.