Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026
RhoC GTPase Activation Assay
Published on: August 22, 2010
RhoA/Rho-kinase as a therapeutic target for the male urogenital tract
Serap Gur1, Philip J Kadowitz, Wayne J G Hellstrom
1Tulane Health Sciences Center, Department of Urology, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
Introduction:
Rho-kinase (ROCK) is a serine/threonine kinase and is one of the major downstream effectors of the small guanosine triphosphatase Rho. In the past few years, evidence has been accumulating to suggest that the RhoA/ROCK system may play an important role in the pathogenesis of a number of cardiovascular and urogenital disorders.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to review the literature pertaining to the role of the RhoA/ROCK system in male urogenital function.
Methods:
Comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed.
Main Outcome Measures:
Inhibitors of ROCK may have potential therapeutic applications, as derived from preclinical and a few clinical studies.
Results:
Published reports suggest that elevated RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling plays a role in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, kidney failure, ejaculation disorders, prostate and bladder cancer initiation, and eventual metastasis.
Conclusions:
This review focuses on our current understanding of the role of the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway in the regulation of the male urogenital system. Rho-kinase inhibitors may evolve into an important pharmacologic option in the future treatment of urogenital system disorders.
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