The role of RhoA/Rho kinase pathway in endothelial dysfunction

Lin Yao, Maritza J. Romero, Haroldo A. Toque, Guang Yang, Ruth B. Caldwell, R. William Caldwell

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

94 Scopus citations

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction is a key event in the development of vascular disease, and it precedes clinically obvious vascular pathology. Abnormal activation of the RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK) pathway has been found to elevate vascular tone through unbalancing the production of vasodilating and vasoconstricting substances. Inhibition of the RhoA/ROCK pathway can prevent endothelial dysfunction in a variety of pathological conditions. This review, based on recent molecular, cellular, and animal studies, focuses on the current understanding of the ROCK pathway and its roles in endothelial dysfunction.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)165-170
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Disease Research
Volume1
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2010

Keywords

  • Endothelial dysfunction
  • Rho kinase
  • endothelium-dependent contractions
  • nitric oxide

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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