Review
Behavioral Sciences
RuoLan Cai, YangYang Wang, ZhenTing Huang, Qian Zou, YinShuang Pu, Changyin Yu, Zhiyou Cai
Summary: ROCK activation can promote the occurrence of Alzheimer's disease and may involve a positive feedback loop between Aβ and ROCK. Additionally, ROCK can also promote the formation of neurofibrillary tangles and exacerbate neuroinflammatory responses.
BEHAVIOURAL BRAIN RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Olmo Martin-Camara, Angel Cores, Pilar Lopez-Alvarado, J. Carlos Menendez
Summary: The morphology of synaptic spines is controlled by Rac1, Cdc42, and RhoA, with RhoA/ROCK playing a crucial role in stabilizing actin formation and preventing the generation of new protrusions. The RhoA/ROCK pathway influences plasticity processes and is implicated in various brain-related pathologies, highlighting its importance in drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Oncology
Yongtao Yang, Lianyong Li, Huan He, Mengyang Shi, Lanying He, Shuwen Liang, Jun Qi, Weiqing Chen
Summary: Numb regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis through the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway in colorectal cancer. Its expression is correlated with prognosis and provides a new theoretical molecular basis for understanding the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer.
EXPERIMENTAL CELL RESEARCH
(2022)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Robert Eckenstaler, Michael Hauke, Ralf A. Benndorf
Summary: RhoA, RhoB, and RhoC are key regulators of signal transduction in cell biology and have significant roles in tumor biology and vascular biology, regulating various cellular processes and disease pathogenesis.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Tedy Sawma, Abdullah Shaito, Nicolas Najm, Munir Sidani, Alexander Orekhov, Ahmed F. El-Yazbi, Rabah Iratni, Ali H. Eid
Summary: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of global mortality, and phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells plays a crucial role in this process. This phenotypic switch involves changes in cell migration, proliferation, gene expression, and differentiation, leading to various vascular dysfunctions.
Article
Behavioral Sciences
Yingchun Xiang, Yumiao Niu, Yacong Xie, Shishuo Chen, Feng Zhu, Weida Shen, Ling-Hui Zeng
Summary: The study investigated the phosphorylation levels of the RhoA/Rho kinase pathway in response to KA treatment, and found that KA induces activation of the pathway leading to inhibition of neurite outgrowth. Pretreatment with fasudil reversed this effect, suggesting that inhibiting the RhoA/Rho kinase pathway may be a potential treatment for seizure-induced neurite injury.
BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR
(2021)
Article
Critical Care Medicine
Yun-Xue Yue, Jia-Yi Zhai, Hui-Bo Du, Li-Na Jiang, Li-Min Zhang, Chen Wang, Zhen-Ao Zhao, Chun-Hui Zhang, Zi-Gang Zhao
Summary: This study demonstrated that 17 beta-estradiol (E2) can improve microvascular reactivity during hemorrhagic shock, potentially through the mediation of the RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Peng-cheng Tu, Ya-lan Pan, Zhong-qing Liang, Guang-lu Yang, Cheng-jie Wu, Liang Zeng, Li-ning Wang, Jie Sun, Meng-min Liu, Yong-feng Yuan, Yang Guo, Yong Ma
Summary: Macrophages play a crucial role in inflammatory diseases, and mechanical load can influence their function and enhance inflammatory responses. This study found that mechanical stretch can regulate macrophage polarization and enhance inflammation in vitro.
BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Joy Das, Rakesh Kumar, Vivek Shah, K. P. Raghavendra, Ashwani Kumar Sharma
Summary: This study presents the first report on the cloning, recombinant expression, and functional characterization of the NAGK gene from Helicoverpa armigera. The gene plays a crucial role in the growth and development of H. armigera and could be considered as a compelling gene of interest for formulating novel pest management strategies.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Qiao-Yun Zhou, Shu-Yu Gui, Peng Zhang, Mei Wang
Summary: MiR-345-5p acts as a tumor suppressor in lung adenocarcinoma cells by downregulating RhoA to inactivate the Rho/ROCK pathway.
CHINESE MEDICAL JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Zeina Harhous, Wissam H. Faour, Nabil El Zein
Summary: The study revealed that VIP induced activation of phospho-AKT and phospho-ERK1/2 levels in macrophages in a GTP-RhoA-GTPase-dependent manner. VIP also increased intracellular release of H2O2 and calcium through PLC and GTP-RhoA-GTPase, and induced the expression of CD11b, CD35, CD66, and MMP9. Furthermore, VIP activated P38 MAPK through the cAMP/PKA pathway but independently of PLC and RhoA signaling, with these effects mediated via the FPRL1 receptor.
INFLAMMATION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Xiaoqi Han, Siyuan Jiang, Yinmin Gu, Lihua Ding, Enhao Zhao, Dongxing Cao, Xiaodong Wang, Ya Wen, Yongbo Pan, Xin Yan, Liqiang Duan, Minxuan Sun, Tao Zhou, Yajuan Liu, Hongbo Hu, Qinong Ye, Shan Gao
Summary: In this study, it was found that HUNK inhibits EMT and metastasis of CRC cells through its kinase-dependent interaction with GEF-H1. HUNK directly phosphorylates GEF-H1 at serine 645, leading to activation of RhoA and subsequent phosphorylation of LIMK-1/CFL-1, resulting in stabilization of F-actin and inhibition of EMT. Clinically, decreased levels of HUNK expression and phosphorylation of GEF-H1 at serine 645 were observed in CRC tissues with metastasis, indicating their potential as biomarkers for metastasis.
CELL DEATH & DISEASE
(2023)
Review
Genetics & Heredity
Guangzhao Guan, Richard D. D. Cannon, Dawn E. E. Coates, Li Mei
Summary: The mechanical properties of cells play an important role in tissue homeostasis and various cellular processes. These properties are determined by the cytoskeleton, which is a complex and dynamic network of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules. The Rho-kinase/ROCK signaling pathway regulates the architecture of this cytoskeletal network, influencing cell behavior.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Mengwei Li, Limei Zhang, Xinyan Liu, Guoqiang Wang, Jian Lu, Jifeng Guo, Hongjie Wang, Jinpeng Xu, Yi Zhang, Na Li, You Zhou
Summary: This study found that low-intensity exercise training can improve the heart function and structure of spontaneously hypertensive rats by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway, providing further evidence for this protective effect.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Fatma Tugce Dalkir, Fatma Aydinoglu, Nuran Ogulener
Summary: This study investigated the role of RhoA/Rho-kinase (ROCK) and PKC in the inhibitory effect of L-cysteine/hydrogen sulfide (H2S) pathway on carbachol-induced contraction in mouse bladder smooth muscle. L-cysteine and H2S reduced the contractions, and ROCK and PKC inhibitors also decreased the contractions, suggesting an interaction between L-cysteine/H2S and the RhoA/ROCK pathway. The inhibitory effect of L-cysteine on ROCK-1, pMYPT1, and pMLC20 levels was reversed by PAG, indicating that CSE-generated H2S mediates the inhibition.
NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERGS ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Josiane Fernandes da Silva, Juliana A. Bolsoni, Rafael M. da Costa, Juliano Alves, Alecsander F. M. Bressan, Luiz Eduardo Silva, Tiago J. Costa, Antonio E. R. Oliveira, Carla P. Manzato, Carlos A. Aguiar, Rubens Fazan, Fernando Q. Cunha, Helder Nakaya, Fernando S. Carneiro, Rita C. Tostes
Summary: The study suggests that AhR activation contributes to vascular dysfunction in obesity, but AhR deletion can alleviate dyslipidaemia and vascular dysfunction induced by a high-fat diet. Targeting AhRs may prevent obesity-associated vascular dysfunction.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Tiago J. Costa, Simone R. Potje, Thais F. C. Fraga-Silva, Julio A. Da Silva-Neto, Paula R. Barros, Daniel Rodrigues, Mirele R. Machado, Ronaldo B. Martins, Rosangela A. Santos-Eichler, Maira N. Benatti, Keyla S. G. de Sa, Carlos Eduardo L. Almado, Italo A. Castro, Marjorie C. Pontelli, Leonardo La Serra, Fernando S. Carneiro, Christiane Becari, Paulo Louzada-Junior, Rene D. R. Oliveira, Dario S. Zamboni, Eurico Arruda, Maria Auxiliadora-Martins, Fernanda R. C. Giachini, Vania L. D. Bonato, Natasha E. Zachara, Gisele F. Bomfim, Rita C. Tostes
Summary: This study demonstrates that SARS-CoV-2 infection impairs mitochondrial function and activates TLR9 signaling in endothelial cells, leading to inflammatory responses and endothelial dysfunction. Targeting mitochondrial metabolic pathways may offer new therapeutic strategies for COVID-19.
VASCULAR PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Physiology
Gabriel Gomes Araujo, Rinaldo Rodrigues dos Passos Junior, Rosaline Rocha Lunardi, Gustavo Tadeu Volpato, Thaigra Sousa Soares, Fernanda Regina Giachini, Victor Vitorino Lima
Summary: This study evaluated the use of etanercept during pregnancy and found that it can cause harm to the fetus and placenta. However, further studies are needed to determine the appropriate dosage and potential risks.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Thais Leal-Silva, Maysa Rocha Souza, Larissa Lopes Cruz, Rafaianne Queiroz Moraes-Souza, Veronyca Goncalves Paula, Thaigra Sousa Soares, Vanessa Dela Justina, Fernanda Regina Giachini, Debora Cristina Damasceno, Madileine Francely Americo, Gustavo Tadeu Volpato
Summary: This study evaluated the effects of Morinda citrifolia fruit extract on maternal performance and fetal development in rats. The results showed that high doses of the extract can cause maternal hepatotoxicity, anti-implantation effects, and fetal abnormalities.
DRUG AND CHEMICAL TOXICOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Physiology
Tiago J. Costa, Julio Cezar De Oliveira, Fernanda Regina Giachini, Victor Vitorino Lima, Rita C. Tostes, Gisele Facholi Bomfim
Summary: Growing evidence suggests that insults during pregnancy can affect the vascular function and immune response of offspring. Overactivation of the immune system has a negative impact on cardiovascular function. This review discusses the potential link between prenatal stress and offspring vascular dysfunction through modulation of the immune system.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Physiology
Rafael M. Costa, Rheure Alves-Lopes, Juliano V. Alves, Carolina P. Servian, Fabiola L. Mestriner, Fernando S. Carneiro, Nubia de S. Lobato, Rita C. Tostes
Summary: Obesity is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and testosterone may contribute to oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction in obese individuals. This study found that testosterone promotes oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction in high fat diet-fed obese mice, potentially through downregulation of the Nrf2 pathway.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Jeimison D. Santos, Jose T. Oliveira-Neto, Paula R. Barros, Luis E. A. Damasceno, Natalia Lautherbach, Ana P. Assis, Carlos A. A. Silva, Carlos A. Sorgi, Lucia H. Faccioli, Isis C. Kettelhut, Helio C. Salgado, Fernando S. Carneiro, Jose C. Alves-Filho, Rita C. Tostes
Summary: This study found that testosterone can cause cardiovascular dysfunction in females by enhancing Th17 cell-related mechanisms, leading to increased blood pressure. Furthermore, changes in immune-cell balance may play a crucial role in gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transmasculine individuals.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-HEART AND CIRCULATORY PHYSIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Cintia Vieira dos Santos, Jacqueline Kerkhoff, Caroline Aparecida Tomazelli, Camilla Ferreira Wenceslau, Adilson Paulo Sinhorin, Domingos de Jesus Rodrigues, Fernando Silva Carneiro, Gisele Facholi Bomfim
Summary: The poison extract of the Rhinella marina toad exhibits significant vasoconstrictive and subsequent vasopressor effects, making it a potential treatment for certain cardiovascular disorders.
Article
Cell Biology
Rafael Sobrano Fais, Rafael Menezes da Costa, Allan Carvalho Mendes, Fabiola Mestriner, Simon Gabriel Comerma-Steffensen, Rita C. Tostes, Ulf Simonsen, Fernando Silva Carneiro
Summary: In this study, it was hypothesized that stimulation of endothelin receptors ETA and ETB leads to NLRP3 activation through increased calcium and ROS formation. The experiments conducted on mice demonstrated that ET-1 reduced intracavernosal pressure and the CC ACh and SNP-induced relaxation, while increasing caspase-1 expression. The use of receptor antagonists, genetic deletion, and ROS inhibitors reversed these effects, indicating that ET-1-induced erectile dysfunction involves the activation of NLRP3 via Ca2+-dependent ROS generation mediated by ETA- and ETB-receptors.
JOURNAL OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Developmental Biology
Alejo Macias-Salas, Martha Sosa-Macias, Laura Jazel Barragan-Zuniga, Ricardo Blanco-Castaneda, Alicia Damiano, Reggie Garcia-Robles, Paola Ayala-Ramirez, Julio Bueno-Sanchez, Fernanda Regina Giachini, Carlos Escudero, Carlos Galaviz-Hernandez
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate whether placental nucleotide variations on eNOS, VEGFA, and FLT-1 genes are more frequently associated with preeclampsia in the Latin American population. The results showed that the VEGFA gene's SNV rs2010963 was significantly associated with preeclampsia, while the allele combination T, G, G, C, C, C may represent potential protective factors for preeclampsia in Latin American women.
Review
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Jeimison D. Santos, Rita C. Tostes, Jose T. Oliveira-Neto
Summary: The growing number of transgender individuals has gained attention and will impact clinical practices worldwide. Testosterone, the main hormone used in gender-affirming hormone therapy, can have harmful cardiovascular effects, and thus requires close attention in clinical use.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-HEART AND CIRCULATORY PHYSIOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Tiago J. Costa, Emily W. Wilson, Milene T. Fontes, Laena Pernomian, Rita C. Tostes, Camilla F. Wenceslau, Cameron G. McCarthy
Summary: O-GlcNAcylation is a widespread and dynamic post-translational modification that affects the function and stability of target proteins. It modulates cellular signaling and transcription regulatory pathways in response to nutrients and stress. It is associated with cardiovascular diseases and has the potential to serve as a novel target for their treatment and prevention.
Meeting Abstract
Developmental Biology
Rinaldo Rodrigues dos Passos Junior, Raiany Alves de Freitas, Vanessa Dela Justina, Camila Werle Bach, Sebastian San Martin, Victor Vitorino Lima, Fernanda Regina Giachini