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Miyahara S, Jenke A, Yazdanyar M, Kistner J, Immohr MB, Sugimura Y, Aubin H, Kamiya H, Okita Y, Lichtenberg A, Akhyari P. The combination approach with Rho-kinase inhibition and mechanical circulatory support in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury: Rho-kinase inhibition and ventricular unloading. Asian Cardiovasc Thorac Ann 2022; 30:894-905. [PMID: 35837687 PMCID: PMC9513506 DOI: 10.1177/02184923221114457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background It remains unclear whether the Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibition in combination
with mechanical circulatory support (MCS) had a synergic protective effect
on myocardial ischemia (MI)/reperfusion injury in therapeutic strategies for
acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We report the results of an approach
using a rat model consisting of a miniaturized cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)
and AMI. Methods A total of 25 male Wistar rats were randomized into 5 groups: (1) Sham: a
suture was passed under the left anterior descending artery (LAD) creating
no MI. A vehicle solution (0.9% saline) was injected intraperitoneally. (2)
Myocardial ischemia (MI) + vehicle (MI + V): LAD was ligated for 30 min and
reperfused for 120 min, followed by administration of vehicle solution. (3)
MI + fasudil (MI + F): the work sequence of group 2, but the selective ROCK
inhibitor fasudil (10 mg/kg) was administered instead. (4) MI + V + CPB: CPB
was initiated 15 min after the ligation of the LAD to the end of the
reperfusion, in addition to the work sequence in group 2. (5) In the
MI + F + CPB group, the work sequence of group 4, but with fasudil
administration (10 mg/kg). Results Measurements of cardiac function through conductance catheter indicated that
the drop of + dP/dt after reperfusion was moderately limited in MI + F + CPB
(vs. MI + V, dP/dt p = 0.22). The preload recruitable
stroke work was moderately improved in the MI + F + CPB
(p = 0.23) compared with the corresponding control animals
(MI + V). Phosphorylated protein kinase B expression in the MI + V + CPB and
MI + F + CPB was higher than that in MI + V (p = 0.33). Conclusion Therefore, fasudil administration with MCS resulted in a moderately better
left ventricular performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Miyahara
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexander Jenke
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mariam Yazdanyar
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Julia Kistner
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Moritz Benjamin Immohr
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Yukiharu Sugimura
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hug Aubin
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hiroyuki Kamiya
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 38051Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Yutaka Okita
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, 38303Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Artur Lichtenberg
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Payam Akhyari
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, 9170Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Strassheim D, Gerasimovskaya E, Irwin D, Dempsey EC, Stenmark K, Karoor V. RhoGTPase in Vascular Disease. Cells 2019; 8:E551. [PMID: 31174369 PMCID: PMC6627336 DOI: 10.3390/cells8060551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ras-homologous (Rho)A/Rho-kinase pathway plays an essential role in many cellular functions, including contraction, motility, proliferation, and apoptosis, inflammation, and its excessive activity induces oxidative stress and promotes the development of cardiovascular diseases. Given its role in many physiological and pathological functions, targeting can result in adverse effects and limit its use for therapy. In this review, we have summarized the role of RhoGTPases with an emphasis on RhoA in vascular disease and its impact on endothelial, smooth muscle, and heart and lung fibroblasts. It is clear from the various studies that understanding the regulation of RhoGTPases and their regulators in physiology and pathological conditions is required for effective targeting of Rho.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Strassheim
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Lab, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Evgenia Gerasimovskaya
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Lab, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - David Irwin
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Lab, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Edward C Dempsey
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Lab, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
- Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Kurt Stenmark
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Lab, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Vijaya Karoor
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Lab, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
- Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Zibara K, Ballout N, Mondello S, Karnib N, Ramadan N, Omais S, Nabbouh A, Caliz D, Clavijo A, Hu Z, Ghanem N, Gajavelli S, Kobeissy F. Combination of drug and stem cells neurotherapy: Potential interventions in neurotrauma and traumatic brain injury. Neuropharmacology 2018; 145:177-198. [PMID: 30267729 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been recognized as one of the major public health issues that leads to devastating neurological disability. As a consequence of primary and secondary injury phases, neuronal loss following brain trauma leads to pathophysiological alterations on the molecular and cellular levels that severely impact the neuropsycho-behavioral and motor outcomes. Thus, to mitigate the neuropathological sequelae post-TBI such as cerebral edema, inflammation and neural degeneration, several neurotherapeutic options have been investigated including drug intervention, stem cell use and combinational therapies. These treatments aim to ameliorate cellular degeneration, motor decline, cognitive and behavioral deficits. Recently, the use of neural stem cells (NSCs) coupled with selective drug therapy has emerged as an alternative treatment option for neural regeneration and behavioral rehabilitation post-neural injury. Given their neuroprotective abilities, NSC-based neurotherapy has been widely investigated and well-reported in numerous disease models, notably in trauma studies. In this review, we will elaborate on current updates in cell replacement therapy in the area of neurotrauma. In addition, we will discuss novel combination drug therapy treatments that have been investigated in conjunction with stem cells to overcome the limitations associated with stem cell transplantation. Understanding the regenerative capacities of stem cell and drug combination therapy will help improve functional recovery and brain repair post-TBI. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "Novel Treatments for Traumatic Brain Injury".
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Zibara
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nissrine Ballout
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Stefania Mondello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Nabil Karnib
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Naify Ramadan
- Department of Women's and Children's Health (KBH), Division of Clinical Pediatrics, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Saad Omais
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Nabbouh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Daniela Caliz
- Lois Pope LIFE Center, Neurosurgery, University of Miami, 33136, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Angelica Clavijo
- Lois Pope LIFE Center, Neurosurgery, University of Miami, 33136, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Zhen Hu
- Lois Pope LIFE Center, Neurosurgery, University of Miami, 33136, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Noël Ghanem
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Shyam Gajavelli
- Lois Pope LIFE Center, Neurosurgery, University of Miami, 33136, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon; Program for Neurotrauma, Neuroproteomics & Biomarkers Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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Dekmak A, Mantash S, Shaito A, Toutonji A, Ramadan N, Ghazale H, Kassem N, Darwish H, Zibara K. Stem cells and combination therapy for the treatment of traumatic brain injury. Behav Brain Res 2016; 340:49-62. [PMID: 28043902 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Revised: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
TBI is a nondegenerative, noncongenital insult to the brain from an external mechanical force; for instance a violent blow in a car accident. It is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms and has become a major cause of death and disability in addition to being a burden on public health and societies worldwide. As such, finding a therapy for TBI has become a major health concern for many countries, which has led to the emergence of many monotherapies that have shown promising effects in animal models of TBI, but have not yet proven any significant efficacy in clinical trials. In this paper, we will review existing and novel TBI treatment options. We will first shed light on the complex pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of this disorder, understanding of which is a necessity for launching any treatment option. We will then review most of the currently available treatments for TBI including the recent approaches in the field of stem cell therapy as an optimal solution to treat TBI. Therapy using endogenous stem cells will be reviewed, followed by therapies utilizing exogenous stem cells from embryonic, induced pluripotent, mesenchymal, and neural origin. Combination therapy is also discussed as an emergent novel approach to treat TBI. Two approaches are highlighted, an approach concerning growth factors and another using ROCK inhibitors. These approaches are highlighted with regard to their benefits in minimizing the outcomes of TBI. Finally, we focus on the consequent improvements in motor and cognitive functions after stem cell therapy. Overall, this review will cover existing treatment options and recent advancements in TBI therapy, with a focus on the potential application of these strategies as a solution to improve the functional outcomes of TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- AmiraSan Dekmak
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, Faculty of Sciences, DSST, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sarah Mantash
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, Faculty of Sciences, DSST, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abdullah Shaito
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amer Toutonji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Naify Ramadan
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, Faculty of Sciences, DSST, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hussein Ghazale
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nouhad Kassem
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, Faculty of Sciences, DSST, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hala Darwish
- Faculty of Medicine, Hariri School of Nursing, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Kazem Zibara
- ER045, Laboratory of Stem Cells, Faculty of Sciences, DSST, PRASE, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases and Stem Cells, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Abstract
Twenty years ago, Rho-kinase was identified as an important downstream effector of the small GTP-binding protein, RhoA. Thereafter, a series of studies demonstrated the important roles of Rho-kinase in the cardiovascular system. The RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway is now widely known to play important roles in many cellular functions, including contraction, motility, proliferation, and apoptosis, and its excessive activity induces oxidative stress and promotes the development of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the important role of Rho-kinase has been demonstrated in the pathogenesis of vasospasm, arteriosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion injury, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. Cyclophilin A is secreted by vascular smooth muscle cells and inflammatory cells and activated platelets in a Rho-kinase-dependent manner, playing important roles in a wide range of cardiovascular diseases. Thus, the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway plays crucial roles under both physiological and pathological conditions and is an important therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine. Recently, functional differences between ROCK1 and ROCK2 have been reported in vitro. ROCK1 is specifically cleaved by caspase-3, whereas granzyme B cleaves ROCK2. However, limited information is available on the functional differences and interactions between ROCK1 and ROCK2 in the cardiovascular system in vivo. Herein, we will review the recent advances about the importance of RhoA/Rho-kinase in the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Shimokawa
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Shinichiro Sunamura
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kimio Satoh
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Shimokawa H, Satoh K. 2015 ATVB Plenary Lecture: translational research on rho-kinase in cardiovascular medicine. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2015; 35:1756-69. [PMID: 26069233 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.115.305353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rho-kinase (ROCKs) is an important downstream effector of the small GTP-binding protein Ras homolog gene family member A. There are 2 isoforms of ROCK, ROCK1 and ROCK2, and they have different functions in several vascular components. The Ras homolog gene family member A/ROCK pathway plays an important role in various fundamental cellular functions, including contraction, motility, proliferation, and apoptosis, whereas its excessive activity is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. For the past 20 years, a series of translational research studies have demonstrated the important roles of ROCK in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. At the molecular and cellular levels, ROCK upregulates several molecules related to inflammation, thrombosis, and fibrosis. In animal experiments, ROCK plays an important role in the pathogenesis of vasospasm, arteriosclerosis, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. Finally, at the human level, ROCK is substantially involved in the pathogenesis of coronary vasospasm, angina pectoris, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. Furthermore, ROCK activity in circulating leukocytes is a useful biomarker for the assessment of disease severity and therapeutic responses in vasospastic angina, heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension. In addition to fasudil, many other ROCK inhibitors are currently under development for various indications. Thus, the ROCK pathway is an important novel therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Shimokawa
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Kimio Satoh
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Kiss A, Tratsiakovich Y, Gonon AT, Fedotovskaya O, Lanner JT, Andersson DC, Yang J, Pernow J. The role of arginase and rho kinase in cardioprotection from remote ischemic perconditioning in non-diabetic and diabetic rat in vivo. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104731. [PMID: 25140754 PMCID: PMC4139318 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacological inhibition of arginase and remote ischemic perconditioning (RIPerc) are known to protect the heart against ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. Purpose The objective of this study was to investigate whether (1) peroxynitrite-mediated RhoA/Rho associated kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway contributes to arginase upregulation following myocardial IR; (2) the inhibition of this pathway is involved as a cardioprotective mechanism of remote ischemic perconditioning and (3) the influence of diabetes on these mechanisms. Methods Anesthetized rats were subjected to 30 min left coronary artery ligation followed by 2 h reperfusion and included in two protocols. In protocol 1 rats were randomized to 1) control IR, 2) RIPerc induced by bilateral femoral artery occlusion for 15 min during myocardial ischemia, 3) RIPerc and administration of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA), 4) administration of the ROCK inhibitor hydroxyfasudil or 5) the peroxynitrite decomposition catalyst FeTPPS. In protocol 2 non-diabetic and type 1 diabetic rats were randomosed to IR or RIPerc as described above. Results Infarct size was significantly reduced in rats treated with FeTPPS, hydroxyfasudil and RIPerc compared to controls (P<0.001). FeTPPS attenuated both ROCK and arginase activity (P<0.001 vs. control). Similarly, RIPerc reduced arginase and ROCK activity, peroxynitrite formation and enhanced phospho-eNOS expression (P<0.05 vs. control). The cardioprotective effect of RIPerc was abolished by L-NMMA. The protective effect of RIPerc and its associated changes in arginase and ROCK activity were abolished in diabetes. Conclusion Arginase is activated by peroxynitrite/ROCK signaling cascade in myocardial IR. RIPerc protects against IR injury via a mechanism involving inhibition of this pathway and enhanced eNOS activation. The beneficial effect and associated molecular changes of RIPerc is abolished in type 1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Kiss
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Yahor Tratsiakovich
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adrian T. Gonon
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Olga Fedotovskaya
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johanna T. Lanner
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel C. Andersson
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jiangning Yang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - John Pernow
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Sezen SF, Lagoda G, Musicki B, Burnett AL. Hydroxyl fasudil, an inhibitor of Rho signaling, improves erectile function in diabetic rats: a role for neuronal ROCK. J Sex Med 2014; 11:2164-71. [PMID: 24919622 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The pathogenesis of diabetic erectile dysfunction (ED) includes neuropathy, but the molecular basis for neurogenic ED is incompletely understood. The RhoA/ROCK pathway has been implicated in diabetic neuropathy and in ED, but its role in diabetic neurogenic ED is not known. AIMS The aim of this study was to determine whether hydroxyl fasudil, a ROCK inhibitor, affects diabetic neuropathy-related ED. METHODS Type 1 diabetes mellitus was induced in male rats by streptozotocin (75 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). After 8 weeks, diabetic rats were administered hydroxyl fasudil, a selective ROCK inhibitor (10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally) or vehicle, for 4 weeks. Age-matched control, nondiabetic, rats were treated intraperitoneally for 4 weeks with saline. At week 12, after a 2 day washout, neuro-stimulated erectile function was evaluated. Major pelvic ganglia (MPG) were collected for Western blot analysis of RhoA, ROCK-1, ROCK-2, phospho (P)-AKT (Ser(473) ), and P-phosphatase and tensin homolog (P-PTEN) (Ser(380) /Thr(382/383) ). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Effect of ROCK inhibitor hydroxyl fasudil on erectile function and ROCK/P-AKT/P-PTEN pathway in the MPG of diabetic rats. RESULTS Erectile response was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in diabetic rats compared with nondiabetic rats and was preserved (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats treated with hydroxyl fasudil. In diabetic rats, RhoA and ROCK-2 protein expressions in MPG were increased (P < 0.05) and remained increased in hydroxyl fasudil-treated rats. P-AKT (Ser(473) ) expression was decreased (P < 0.05), whereas P-PTEN (Ser(380) /Thr(382/383) ) expression was increased (P < 0.05) in MPG of diabetic rats compared with nondiabetic rats, and both were reversed (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats treated with hydroxyl fasudil. CONCLUSION Improved erectile function and restored P-AKT and P-PTEN in the MPG with hydroxyl fasudil treatment suggest the role of Rho signaling via PTEN/AKT pathway in neurogenic diabetic ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sena F Sezen
- The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute and Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Evidence of a direct cellular protective effect of Rho-kinase inhibitors on endothelin-induced cardiac myocyte hypertrophy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 424:338-40. [PMID: 22771803 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.06.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Using a cellular approach, the present study examined whether fasudil and active metabolite hydroxyfasudil, Rho-kinase inhibitors, exert a direct protective effect on endothelin-induced cardiac myocyte hypertrophy in vitro. Treatment with endothelin (10nM) caused significant hypertrophy of cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes by a 21.2% increase in cell surface area. Fasudil (1-10 μM) and hydroxyfasudil (0.3-10 μM) significantly prevented endothelin-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. The present results suggest that inhibition of cardiac hypertrophy by fasudil is, at least in part, due to direct protection of cardiomyocytes from hypertrophy.
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Satoh K, Fukumoto Y, Shimokawa H. Rho-kinase: important new therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2011; 301:H287-96. [PMID: 21622831 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00327.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Rho-kinase (ROCKs) belongs to the family of serine/threonine kinases and is an important downstream effector of the small GTP-binding protein RhoA. There are two isoforms of Rho-kinase, ROCK1 and ROCK2, and they have different functions with ROCK1 for circulating inflammatory cells and ROCK2 for vascular smooth muscle cells. It has been demonstrated that the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway plays an important role in various fundamental cellular functions, including contraction, motility, proliferation, and apoptosis, leading to the development of cardiovascular disease. The important role of Rho-kinase in vivo has been demonstrated in the pathogenesis of vasospasm, arteriosclerosis, ischemia-reperfusion injury, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, stroke, and heart failure. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of fasudil, a selective Rho-kinase inhibitor, have been demonstrated for the treatment of several cardiovascular diseases in humans. Thus the Rho-kinase pathway is an important new therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimio Satoh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Rozic G, Lupowitz Z, Piontkewitz Y, Zisapel N. Dynamic changes in neurexins' alternative splicing: role of Rho-associated protein kinases and relevance to memory formation. PLoS One 2011; 6:e18579. [PMID: 21533271 PMCID: PMC3075264 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0018579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2010] [Accepted: 03/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The three neurexins genes (NRXN1/2/3) encode polymorphic synaptic membrane proteins that are involved in cognitive functioning. Neurexins' selectivity of function is presumably conferred through differential use of 2 promoters and 5 alternative splicing sites (SS#1/2/3/4/5). In day-old rat brain neurons grown in culture, activation (depolarization) induces reversible, calcium dependent, repression of NRXN2α SS#3 insert. The effects of depolarization on NRXN1/2/3α splicing and biochemical pathways mediating them were further studied in these neurons. NRXN1/2/3α splicing in the course of memory formation in vivo was also explored, using fear conditioning paradigm in rats in which the animals were trained to associate an aversive stimulus (electrical shock) with a neutral context (a tone), resulting in the expression of fear responses to the neutral context. In the cultured neurons depolarization induced, beside NRXN2α SS#3, repression of SS#3 and SS#4 exons in NRXN3α but not NRXN1α. The repressions were mediated by the calcium/protein kinase C/Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) pathway. Fear conditioning induced significant and transient repressions of the NRXN1/2/3α SS#4 exons in the rat hippocampus. ROCK inhibition prior to training attenuated the behavioral fear response, the NRXN1/2/3α splicing repressions and subsequent recovery and the levels of excitatory (PSD95) and inhibitory (gephyrin) synaptic proteins in the hippocampus. No such effects were observed in the prefrontal cortex. Significant correlations existed between the fear response and hippocampal NRXN3α and NRXN2α SS#4 inserts as well as PSD95 protein levels. Hippocampal NRXN1α SS#4 insert and gephyrin levels did not correlate with the behavioral response but were negatively correlated with each other. These results show for the first time dynamic, experience related changes in NRXN1/2/3α alternative splicing in the rat brain and a role for ROCK in them. Specific neurexins' transcripts may be involved in synaptic remodeling occurring at an intermediate (hours) time scale in the course of memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Rozic
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Zipora Lupowitz
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Piontkewitz
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Nava Zisapel
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- * E-mail:
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Rho-kinase inhibition: a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Drug Discov Today 2010; 15:622-9. [PMID: 20601092 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2010.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2009] [Revised: 06/07/2010] [Accepted: 06/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The Rho/rho-kinase (ROCK) pathway has an important role in the pathogenesis of several cardiovascular diseases. The activation of ROCK is involved in the regulation of vascular tone, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and remodeling. The inhibition of ROCK has a beneficial effect in a variety of cardiovascular disorders. Evidence from animal models and from clinical use of ROCK inhibitors, such as Y-27632, fasudil and statins (i.e. pleiotropic effects), supports the hypothesis that ROCK is a potential therapeutic target. This review provides a current understanding of the role of ROCK pathway in the regulation of vascular function and the use of ROCK inhibitors in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders.
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Fukumoto Y, Mohri M, Inokuchi K, Ito A, Hirakawa Y, Masumoto A, Hirooka Y, Takeshita A, Shimokawa H. Anti-ischemic effects of fasudil, a specific Rho-kinase inhibitor, in patients with stable effort angina. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2007; 49:117-21. [PMID: 17414222 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0b013e31802ef532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Epicardial coronary stenosis causes myocardial ischemia; however, the role of coronary microvessels is poorly understood in the pathogenesis of effort angina. We have previously demonstrated that Rho-kinase pathway is substantially involved in coronary arterial hyperconstriction in patients with vasospastic angina and those with microvascular angina. In the present study, we tested our hypothesis that Rho-kinase is involved in coronary microvascular constriction in patients with effort angina. Intracoronary administration of fasudil (300 microg/min for 15 min), a specific Rho-kinase inhibitor, significantly increased oxygen saturation in coronary sinus vein from 37 +/- 3% to 41 +/- 3% (P < 0.05) but not in six age-matched controls (from 42 +/- 3% to 43 +/- 3%, P = NS). Furthermore, the fasudil treatment significantly ameliorated pacing-induced myocardial ischemia in patients with effort angina (magnitudes of symptom: 1.5 +/- 0.6 to 0.6 +/- 0.4, P < 0.01; ischemic ST-segment depression, 1.8 +/- 0.3 to 1.0 +/- 0.2 mm, P < 0.01; percent lactate production, 50 +/- 17% to 0.4 +/- 7%, P < 0.01) without significant hemodynamic changes. These results provide the first evidence that Rho-kinase is substantially involved in coronary microvascular dysfunction associated with myocardial ischemia in patients with effort angina, suggesting that Rho-kinase can be a novel therapeutic target in ischemic heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Fukumoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Fukuoka, Japan.
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14
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Hu E, Lee D. Rho kinase as potential therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases: opportunities and challenges. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2007; 9:715-36. [PMID: 16083339 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.9.4.715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Rho kinase (ROCK) belongs to a family of Ser/Thr protein kinases that are activated via interaction with the small GTP-binding protein RhoA. Growing evidence suggests that RhoA and ROCK participate in a variety of important physiological functions in vasculature including smooth muscle contraction, cell proliferation, cell adhesion and migration, and many aspects of inflammatory responses. As these processes mediate the onset and progression of cardiovascular disease, modulation of the Rho/ROCK signalling pathway is a potential strategy for targeting an array of cardiovascular indications. Two widely employed ROCK inhibitors, fasudil and Y-27632, have provided preliminary but compelling evidence supporting the potential cardiovascular benefits of ROCK inhibition in preclinical animal disease models and in the clinic. This review summarises the molecular biology of ROCK and its biological functions in smooth muscle, endothelium and other vascular tissues. In addition, there will be a focus on recent progress demonstrating the benefits of ROCK inhibition in several animal models of cardiovascular diseases. Finally, recent progress in the identification of novel ROCK inhibitors and challenges associated with their development for clinical use will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erding Hu
- Center of Excellence for Cardiovascular and Urogenital Drug Discovery, Department of Vascular Biology, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, 709 Swedeland Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406, USA.
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Abstract
There is growing evidence that Rho-kinases (ROCKs), the immediate downstream targets of the small guanosine triphosphate-binding protein Rho, may contribute to cardiovascular disease. ROCKs play a central role in diverse cellular functions such as smooth muscle contraction, stress fiber formation and cell migration and proliferation. Overactivity of ROCKs is observed in cerebral ischemia, coronary vasospasm, hypertension, vascular inflammation, arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis. ROCKs, therefore, may be an important and still relatively unexplored therapeutic target in cardiovascular disease. Recent experimental and clinical studies using ROCK inhibitors such as Y-27632 and fasudil have revealed a critical role of ROCKs in embryonic development, inflammation and oncogenesis. This review will focus on the potential role of ROCKs in cellular functions and discuss the prospects of ROCK inhibitors as emerging therapy for cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyuki Rikitake
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Vascular Medicine Research Unit, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA, Tel.: +617 768 8409, Fax: +617 768 8421,
| | - James K Liao
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Vascular Medicine Research Unit, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA, Tel.: +617 768 8424, Fax: +617 768 8425,
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16
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Abstract
Rho is a GTPase known to be a major mediator in the formation of stress fibers and focal adhesions, cell morphology, and smooth muscle contraction. Its role in smooth muscle contraction has led to exploration into the connection between Rho-mediated kinase activity and cardiovascular disease. The role of Rho-kinase in calcium sensitization for vascular smooth muscle contraction has recently been characterized. Inappropriate coronary artery vasoconstriction resulting from increased Rho-kinase in the vascular system is likely involved in the pathogenesis of exercise-induced myocardial ischemia, spontaneous coronary artery spasm, and hypertension. In clinical trials, Rho-kinase inhibitors such as fasudil and Y-27632 have demonstrated antiischemic, antivasospastic, and antihypertensive effects. These compounds have also exhibited the ability to blunt progression of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac remodeling in heart failure. As such, Rho-kinase inhibition represents a potential novel therapeutic approach in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Lai
- Department of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente/Los Angeles Medical Center, Placentia, NY 10595, USA
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Tamura M, Nakao H, Yoshizaki H, Shiratsuchi M, Shigyo H, Yamada H, Ozawa T, Totsuka J, Hidaka H. Development of specific Rho-kinase inhibitors and their clinical application. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2005; 1754:245-52. [PMID: 16213195 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2005.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2005] [Revised: 06/17/2005] [Accepted: 06/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Hexahydro-1-(isoquinoline-5-sulfonyl)-1H-1,4-diazepine, HA-1077, is a known selective inhibitor of Rho-kinase. Although its IC(50) value against Rho-kinase is more than 10 times lower than those for kinases such as PKA, PKB, PKC, PKG, MLCK, CaMKII and others, the molecule still retains relative potent inhibition activities against these kinases. In order to produce highly specific Rho-kinase inhibitors, several HA-1077 analogs were synthesized and their kinase inhibition properties evaluated. (S)-Hexahydro-1-(4-ethenylisoquinoline-5-sulfonyl)-2-methyl-1H-1,4-diazepine was found to be a potent Rho-kinase inhibitor. The IC50 value against Rho-kinase was 6 nM, while those against other kinases remained at almost the same level as that of HA-1077. Furthermore, we designed HA-1077 analogs on the basis of the complex structure of PKA and HA-1077. Amongst these, (S)-hexahydro-4-glycyl-2-methyl-1-(4-methylisoquinoline-5-sulfonyl)-1H-1,4-diazepine and other glycine derivatives were found to be highly specific Rho-kinase inhibitors. These Rho-kinase specific inhibitors were applied to rabbit ocular hypertensive models and were shown to reduce intraocular pressure. These results demonstrate that the new 5-isoquinolinesulfonylamides are not only potent ROCK selective compounds, but are also useful compounds for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Tamura
- Tokyo New Drug Research Laboratories II, Kowa Company Ltd., Noguchi-cho, Higashimurayama, Tokyo 189-0022, Japan
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18
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Demiryürek S, Kara AF, Celik A, Babül A, Tarakçioglu M, Demiryürek AT. Effects of fasudil, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, on myocardial preconditioning in anesthetized rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2005; 527:129-40. [PMID: 16307738 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2005.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2005] [Revised: 09/20/2005] [Accepted: 10/11/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of fasudil, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, on ischemic preconditioning and carbachol preconditioning in anesthetized rats. The total number of ventricular ectopic beats was markedly augmented with fasudil at 0.3 mg/kg and depressed with fasudil at 10 mg/kg. Fasudil at 10 mg/kg also markedly decreased the ventricular tachycardia incidence. Ischemic preconditioning, induced by 5 min coronary artery occlusion and 5 min reperfusion, decreased the incidence of ventricular tachycardia and abolished the occurrence of ventricular fibrillation. The incidences of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation in the fasudil (10 mg/kg) + ischemic preconditioning group were found to be similar to the ischemic preconditioning group. However, low doses of fasudil (0.3 and 1 mg/kg) appeared to prevent the antiarrhythmic effects of ischemic preconditioning. Carbachol (4 microg/kg/min for 5 min) induced marked reductions in mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate and abolished ventricular tachycardia. Marked reductions in ventricular ectopic beats and ventricular tachycardia were noted in the fasudil (10 mg/kg) + carbachol preconditioning group. Lactate levels were markedly reduced in the ischemic preconditioning group and this reduction was prominently inhibited with fasudil at 1 mg/kg. Ischemic preconditioning caused a marked decrease in plasma malondialdehyde levels. Fasudil (10 mg/kg), ischemic preconditioning and carbachol preconditioning each generated marked reductions in ischemic myocardial malondialdehyde levels. Decreases in infarct size were observed with fasudil (10 mg/kg) treatment, ischemic preconditioning and carbachol preconditioning when compared to control. These results suggest that low doses of fasudil (0.3 and 1 mg/kg) appeared to prevents the effects of ischemic preconditioning and carbachol preconditioning, but a high dose of fasudil (10 mg/kg) was able to produce cardioprotective effects on myocardium against arrhythmias, infarct size or biochemical parameters and mimic the effects of ischemic preconditioning in anesthetized rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seniz Demiryürek
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Besevler, 06510 Ankara, Turkey
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Collins I, Caldwell J, Fonseca T, Donald A, Bavetsias V, Hunter LJK, Garrett MD, Rowlands MG, Aherne GW, Davies TG, Berdini V, Woodhead SJ, Davis D, Seavers LCA, Wyatt PG, Workman P, McDonald E. Structure-based design of isoquinoline-5-sulfonamide inhibitors of protein kinase B. Bioorg Med Chem 2005; 14:1255-73. [PMID: 16249095 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2005.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2005] [Revised: 09/08/2005] [Accepted: 09/23/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Structure-based drug design of novel isoquinoline-5-sulfonamide inhibitors of PKB as potential antitumour agents was investigated. Constrained pyrrolidine analogues that mimicked the bound conformation of linear prototypes were identified and investigated by co-crystal structure determinations with the related protein PKA. Detailed variation in the binding modes between inhibitors with similar overall conformations was observed. Potent PKB inhibitors from this series inhibited GSK3beta phosphorylation in cellular assays, consistent with inhibition of PKB kinase activity in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Collins
- Cancer Research, UK Centre for Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, Surrey.
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20
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Uno Y, Minatoguchi S, Arai M, Wang N, Chen XH, Hashimoto K, Lu C, Takemura G, Fujiwara H. The anti-diabetic drug miglitol is protective against anginal ischaemia through a mechanism independent of regional myocardial blood flow in the dog. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2005; 32:805-10. [PMID: 16173940 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2005.04269.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
1. In the present study, we attempted to clarify whether the antidiabetic drug miglitol, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, has a protective effect against anginal ischaemia. We had reported previously that miglitol reduces myocardial infarct size through inhibition of glycogenolysis during ischaemia in rabbits. However, the effect of miglitol on anginal ischaemia remains unknown. 2. In open-chest beagle dogs with a severely stenosed left anterior descending coronary artery, an epicardial electrode was attached to the surface of the risk area of the left ventricle and a microdialysis probe was implanted into the myocardium to measure ST segment changes and interstitial lactate accumulation. The first episode of anginal ischaemia was induced by atrial pacing and phenylephrine infusion (50-100 microg/min) for 10 min. The second episode of anginal ischaemia was induced 210 min after the first episode. Miglitol (10 mg/kg, i.v.) was administered to the miglitol group (n = 10) 30 min before the second episode of anginal ischaemia, whereas saline was administered to the control group (n = 10). Regional myocardial blood flow was measured using coloured microspheres. 3. There was no significant difference in regional myocardial blood flow in the risk and non-risk areas between the first and second episodes of anginal ischaemia and between the miglitol and control groups. During the first and second episodes of anginal ischaemia, the ST segment was decreased to a similar extent in the control group. Although ST segment depression during the first episode of anginal ischaemia was similar in both groups, ST segment depression during the second episode of anginal ischaemia was significantly attenuated in the miglitol-treated group compared with the control group (1.3 +/- 0.4 vs 2.2 +/- 0.4 mV, respectively). Miglitol significantly attenuated myocardial interstitial lactate accumulation in the risk area. 4. In conclusion, in the present study miglitol improved ST segment depression and attenuated the accumulation of myocardial interstitial lactate during anginal ischaemia without altering regional myocardial blood flow. Miglitol has an anti-anginal ischaemia effect via a mechanism that is independent of regional myocardial blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Uno
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Gifu University School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
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21
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Shimokawa H, Takeshita A. Rho-kinase is an important therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2005; 25:1767-75. [PMID: 16002741 DOI: 10.1161/01.atv.0000176193.83629.c8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Rho-kinase has been identified as one of the effectors of the small GTP-binding protein Rho. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that Rho/Rho-kinase pathway plays an important role in various cellular functions, not only in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) contraction but also in actin cytoskeleton organization, cell adhesion and motility, cytokinesis, and gene expressions, all of which may be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. At molecular level, Rho-kinase upregulates various molecules that accelerate inflammation/oxidative stress, thrombus formation, and fibrosis, whereas it downregulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase. The expression of Rho-kinase itself is mediated by protein kinase C/NF-kappaB pathway with an inhibitory and stimulatory modulation by estrogen and nicotine, respectively. At cellular level, Rho-kinase mediates VSMC hypercontraction, stimulates VSMC proliferation and migration, and enhances inflammatory cell motility. In animal studies, Rho-kinase has been shown to be substantially involved in the pathogenesis of vasospasm, arteriosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion injury, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, stroke and heart failure, and to enhance central sympathetic nerve activity. Finally, in clinical studies, fasudil, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, is effective for the treatment of a wide range of cardiovascular disease, including cerebral and coronary vasospasm, angina, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure, with a reasonable safety. Thus, Rho-kinase is an important therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Shimokawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Fukuoka, Japan.
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22
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Yada T, Shimokawa H, Hiramatsu O, Kajita T, Shigeto F, Tanaka E, Shinozaki Y, Mori H, Kiyooka T, Katsura M, Ohkuma S, Goto M, Ogasawara Y, Kajiya F. Beneficial effect of hydroxyfasudil, a specific Rho-kinase inhibitor, on ischemia/reperfusion injury in canine coronary microcirculation in vivo. J Am Coll Cardiol 2005; 45:599-607. [PMID: 15708710 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2004.10.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2004] [Revised: 10/01/2004] [Accepted: 10/18/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined whether hydroxyfasudil, a specific Rho-kinase inhibitor, exerts cardioprotective effect on coronary ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and, if so, whether nitric oxide (NO) is involved. BACKGROUND Recent studies have demonstrated that Rho-kinase is substantially involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases; however, it remains to be examined whether it is also involved in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. METHODS Canine subepicardial small arteries (SA, >or=100 microm) and arterioles (A, <100 microm) were observed by a charge-coupled device intravital microscope during I/R. Coronary vascular responses to endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine, intracoronary [IC]) and -independent (papaverine, IC) vasodilators were examined after I/R under the following four conditions: control (n = 7), NO synthase inhibitor alone (N(G)-monomethl-L-arginine [L-NMMA], IC, n = 4), hydroxyfasudil alone (IC, n = 7), and hydroxyfasudil plus L-NMMA (n = 7). RESULTS Hydroxyfasudil significantly attenuated serotonin (IC)-induced vasoconstriction of SA (-7 +/- 1% vs. 2 +/- 1%, p < 0.01). Coronary I/R significantly impaired coronary vasodilation to acetylcholine after I/R (SA, p < 0.05; and A, p < 0.01 vs. before I/R) and L-NMMA further reduced the vasodilation, whereas hydroxyfasudil completely preserved the responses. The vasoconstriction by L-NMMA after I/R was significantly improved by hydroxyfasudil in both-sized arteries (both p < 0.01). Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein in the ischemic endocardium of left anterior descending coronary artery area (as determined by Western blotting) significantly decreased (79 +/- 4%) compared with the nonischemic endocardium of LCX area (100 +/- 7%), which was improved by hydroxyfasudil (105 +/- 6%, p < 0.01). Hydroxyfasudil significantly reduced myocardial infarct size, and hydroxyfasudil with L-NMMA also reduced the infarct size compared with L-NMMA alone. CONCLUSIONS Hydroxyfasudil exerts cardioprotective effects on coronary I/R injury in vivo, in which NO-mediated mechanism may be involved through preservation of eNOS expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toyotaka Yada
- Department of Medical Engineering and Systems Cardiology, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan.
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Abstract
Resistance arteries are able to adapt to physiological and pathophysiological stimuli to maintain adequate perfusion according to the metabolic demand of the tissue. Although vasomotor control allows rapid adaptation of lumen diameter, vascular remodeling constitutes an active process that occurs in response to long-term alterations of hemodynamic parameters. Unfortunately, this initially adaptive process contributes to the pathology of vascular diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated the participation of Rho protein signaling pathways in several cardiovascular pathologies including hypertension, coronary artery spasm, effort angina, atherosclerosis, and restenosis. Functional analyses have further revealed that RhoA-dependent pathways are involved in excessive contraction, migration, and proliferation associated with arterial diseases. The present review focuses on the role of Rho proteins, in particular RhoA, in vascular smooth muscle cells and the involvement of Rho-dependent signaling pathways in resistance artery remodeling, more particularly in relation to hypertension.
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Demiryürek S, Kara AF, Celik A, Tarakçioğlu M, Bağci C, Demiryürek AT. Effects of Y-27632, a selective Rho-kinase inhibitor, on myocardial preconditioning in anesthetized rats. Biochem Pharmacol 2005; 69:49-58. [PMID: 15588713 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2004.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2004] [Accepted: 09/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the effects of Y-27632, a selective Rho-kinase inhibitor, on ischemic preconditioning (IP) and carbachol preconditioning (CP) in anesthetized rats. Administration of Y-27632 (0.1 mg/kg) produced slight, but not significant, reduction in mean arterial blood pressure and suppressed the total number of ventricular ectopic beats (VEBs). IP, induced by 5 min coronary artery occlusion and 5 min reperfusion, decreased the incidence of ventricular tachycardia (VT) from 100 (n=30) to 25% (n=24) and abolished the occurrence of ventricular fibrillation (VF) (40% in control group) during 30 min of ischemia. The incidences of VT and VF in Y-27632+IP group were found to be similar to IP group. Carbachol (4 microg/kg/min for 5 min) induced marked depressions in mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate and attenuated the total number of VEBs, but significant reductions in VT and VF incidences were noted in Y-27632+CP group. Y-27632 infusion for 5 min abolished VF occurrence. Marked reductions in plasma lactate levels were observed in all treatment and preconditioning groups. IP led to marked decrease in malondialdehyde levels. Decreases in infarct size were also observed with all groups when compared to control. These results suggest that infusion of Y-27632 was able to produce cardioprotective effects on myocardium against arrhythmias, infarct size or biochemical parameters and mimic the effects of ischemic preconditioning in anesthetized rats. Therefore, it is likely that inhibition of Rho-kinase is involved in the signaling cascade of myocardial preconditioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seniz Demiryürek
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Besevler, 06510 Ankara, Turkey.
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Vincelette J, Pagila R, Kawai K, Ishii M, Horimizu Y, Vergona R, Sullivan ME, Morser J, Dole WP, Wang YX. Inhibition of Rho-Kinase by Hydroxyfasudil Prevents Vasopressin-Induced Myocardial Ischemia in Donryu Rats by Attenuating Coronary Vasoconstriction. Pharmacology 2005; 75:145-51. [PMID: 16158013 DOI: 10.1159/000088280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2005] [Accepted: 06/01/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibition of rho-kinase has been shown to attenuate vasopressin (AVP)-induced myocardial ischemia measured as S-wave depression in Donryu rats. This has been attributed to a direct inhibitory effect on AVP-induced coronary vasoconstriction. However, since AVP also increased mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) which was attenuated by the rho-kinase inhibitors used, the prevention of myocardial ischemia could have been due to effects on afterload. RESULTS The purpose of this study was to determine if rho-kinase inhibition prevents S-wave depression independent of the effects on blood pressure. In anesthetized Donryu rats (200-340 g), infusion of AVP (0.1 IU/kg) resulted in a sustained increase in MAP (DeltaMAP=46+/-7 mm Hg) and a transient S-wave depression (-90+/-20 microV). Infusion of phenylephrine titrated to achieve a comparable pressor response (DeltaMAP=52+/-2 mm Hg) resulted in a significantly smaller S-wave depression (-30+/-20 microV). Pretreatment with the rho-kinase inhibitor, hydroxyfasudil (3 mg/kg), decreased MAP by -28+/-2 mm Hg and significantly attenuated AVP-induced S-wave depression (-10+/-10 microV) compared to AVP. When rats were pretreated with phenylephrine titrated to maintain MAP, hydroxyfasudil still significantly attenuated AVP-induced S-wave depression (-14+/-12 microV). Hydralazine (1 mg/kg), which lowered MAP by -36+/-5 mm Hg, had no significant effect on AVP-induced S-wave depression (-105+/-32 microV). CONCLUSION These data indicate that inhibition of rho-kinase with hydroxyfasudil attenuates AVP-induced myocardial ischemia independent of changes in MAP and are consistent with an inhibitory effect on coronary vasoconstriction.
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Sanada S, Asanuma H, Tsukamoto O, Minamino T, Node K, Takashima S, Fukushima T, Ogai A, Shinozaki Y, Fujita M, Hirata A, Okuda H, Shimokawa H, Tomoike H, Hori M, Kitakaze M. Protein kinase A as another mediator of ischemic preconditioning independent of protein kinase C. Circulation 2004; 110:51-7. [PMID: 15210595 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.0000133390.12306.c7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We and others have reported that transient accumulation of cyclic AMP (cAMP) in the myocardium during ischemic preconditioning (IP) limits infarct size independent of protein kinase C (PKC). Accumulation of cAMP activates protein kinase A (PKA), which has been demonstrated to cause reversible inhibition of RhoA and Rho-kinase. We investigated the involvement of PKA and Rho-kinase in the infarct limitation by IP. METHODS AND RESULTS Dogs were subjected to 90-minute ischemia and 6-hour reperfusion. We examined the effect on Rho-kinase activity during sustained ischemia and infarct size of (1) preischemic transient coronary occlusion (IP), (2) preischemic activation of PKA/PKC, (3) inhibition of PKA/PKC during IP, and (4) inhibition of Rho-kinase or actin cytoskeletal deactivation during myocardial ischemia. Either IP or dibutyryl-cAMP treatment activated PKA, which was dose-dependently inhibited by 2 PKA inhibitors (H89 and Rp-cAMP). IP and preischemic PKA activation substantially reduced infarct size, which was blunted by preischemic PKA inhibition. IP and preischemic PKA activation, but not PKC activation, caused a substantial decrease of Rho-kinase activation during sustained ischemia. These changes were cancelled by preischemic inhibition of PKA but not PKC. Furthermore, either Rho-kinase inhibition (hydroxyfasudil or Y27632) or actin cytoskeletal deactivation (cytochalasin-D) during sustained ischemia achieved the same infarct limitation as preischemic PKA activation without affecting systemic hemodynamic parameters, the area at risk, or collateral blood flow. CONCLUSIONS Transient preischemic activation of PKA reduces infarct size through Rho-kinase inhibition and actin cytoskeletal deactivation during sustained ischemia, implicating a novel mechanism for cardioprotection by ischemic preconditioning independent of PKC and a potential new therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoji Sanada
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
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Seko T, Ito M, Kureishi Y, Okamoto R, Moriki N, Onishi K, Isaka N, Hartshorne DJ, Nakano T. Activation of RhoA and inhibition of myosin phosphatase as important components in hypertension in vascular smooth muscle. Circ Res 2003; 92:411-8. [PMID: 12600888 DOI: 10.1161/01.res.0000059987.90200.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 272] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Two mechanisms are proposed to account for the inhibition of myosin phosphatase (MP) involved in Ca2+ sensitization of vascular muscle, ie, phosphorylation of either MYPT1, a target subunit of MP or CPI-17, an inhibitory phosphoprotein. In cultured vascular aorta smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), stimulation with angiotensin II activated RhoA, and this was blocked by pretreatment with 8-bromo-cGMP. VSMCs stimulated by angiotensin II, endothelin-1, or U-46619 significantly increased the phosphorylation levels of both MYPT1 (at Thr696) and CPI-17 (at Thr38). The angiotensin II-induced phosphorylation of MYPT1 was completely blocked by 8-bromo-cGMP or Y-27632 (a Rho-kinase inhibitor), but not by GF109203X (a PKC inhibitor). In contrast, phosphorylation of CPI-17 was inhibited only by GF109203X. Y-27632 dramatically corrected the hypertension in N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-treated rats, and this hypertension also was sensitive to isosorbide mononitrate. The level of the active form of RhoA was significantly higher in aortas from L-NAME-treated rats. Expression of RhoA, Rho-kinase, MYPT1, CPI-17, and myosin light chain kinase were not significantly different in aortas from L-NAME-treated and control rats. Activation of RhoA without changes in levels of other signaling molecules were observed in three other rat models of hypertension, ie, stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats, renal hypertensive rats, and DOCA-salt rats. These results suggest that independent of the cause of hypertension, a common point in downstream signaling and a critical component of hypertension is activation of RhoA and subsequent activation of Rho-kinase.
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MESH Headings
- 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid/pharmacology
- Amides/pharmacology
- Angiotensin II/pharmacology
- Animals
- Cells, Cultured
- Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives
- Cyclic GMP/pharmacology
- Endothelin-1/pharmacology
- Enzyme Activation/drug effects
- Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Hypertension/chemically induced
- Hypertension/enzymology
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
- Maleimides/pharmacology
- Muscle Proteins/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/cytology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/enzymology
- Myosin-Light-Chain Phosphatase
- NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester/administration & dosage
- Phosphoprotein Phosphatases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Phosphoprotein Phosphatases/metabolism
- Phosphoproteins/metabolism
- Phosphorylation/drug effects
- Protein Kinase C/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Pyridines/pharmacology
- Rats
- Rats, Inbred SHR
- Rats, Inbred WKY
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Signal Transduction
- Threonine/metabolism
- rho-Associated Kinases
- rhoA GTP-Binding Protein/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Seko
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Mie University School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, Mie 514-8507, Japan
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Satoh SI, Yamaguchi T, Hitomi A, Sato N, Shiraiwa K, Ikegaki I, Asano T, Shimokawa H. Fasudil attenuates interstitial fibrosis in rat kidneys with unilateral ureteral obstruction. Eur J Pharmacol 2002; 455:169-74. [PMID: 12445583 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(02)02619-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate possible effects of the Rho-kinase inhibitor, fasudil, on the progression of renal failure in rats with unilateral ureteral obstruction. The renal failure markers monitored were the extent of renal interstitial fibrosis and that of macrophage infiltration. In kidneys with unilateral ureteral obstruction, interstitial fibrosis was observed, using Sirius-Red staining, on day 16 after unilateral ureteral obstruction. Macrophage infiltration was observed by immunohistochemistry, using the antibody, ED1. Interstitial fibrosis and macrophage infiltration were significantly attenuated in fasudil-treated animals. The migration of monocytes in vitro elicited by N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine was potently inhibited by fasudil and its active metabolite, hydroxyfasudil. These results suggest that inhibition of Rho-kinase produces a reduction of macrophage infiltration and represents a new therapeutic strategy for renal fibrosis, a major factor in the progression to end-stage renal failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-ichi Satoh
- Institute of Life Science Research, Asahi Kasei Corporation, 632-1, Mifuku, Ohito-Cho, Tagata-Gun, Shizuoka 410-2321, Japan.
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Trauger JW, Lin FF, Turner MS, Stephens J, LoGrasso PV. Kinetic mechanism for human Rho-Kinase II (ROCK-II). Biochemistry 2002; 41:8948-53. [PMID: 12102637 DOI: 10.1021/bi0258243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rho-Kinase is a serine/threonine kinase that is involved in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction and cytoskeletal reorganization of nonmuscle cells. While the signal transduction pathway in which Rho-Kinase participates has been and continues to be extensively studied, the kinetic mechanism of Rho-Kinase-catalyzed phosphorylation has not been investigated. We report here elucidation of the kinetic mechanism for Rho-Kinase by using steady-state kinetic studies. These studies used the kinase domain of human Rho-Kinase II (ROCK-II 1-534) with S6 peptide (biotin-AKRRRLSSLRA-NH(2)) as the phosphorylatable substrate. Double-reciprocal plots for two-substrate kinetic data yielded intersecting line patterns with either ATP or S6 peptide as the varied substrate, indicating that Rho-Kinase utilized a ternary complex (sequential) kinetic mechanism. Dead-end inhibition studies were used to investigate the order of binding for ATP and the peptide substrate. The ATP-competitive inhibitors AMP-PCP and Y-27632 were noncompetitive inhibitors versus S6 peptide, and the S6 peptide analogue S6-AA (acetyl-AKRRRLAALRA-NH(2)) was a competitive inhibitor versus S6 peptide and a noncompetitive inhibitor versus ATP. These results indicated a random order of binding for ATP and S6 peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Trauger
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Merck Research Laboratories, 3535 General Atomics Court, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
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