The emerging function of MYPT1 as a biomarker and therapeutic target

Recent research suggests that isoforms of myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1) may influence blood pressure regulation by altering smooth muscle responsiveness and, as a result, the function of vascularized tissues. Cloning and sequencing from diverse tissues and species revealed the existence of MYPT1 isoforms produced through alternative splicing, indicating their potential role in the regulation of blood pressure. Moreover, alterations in MYPT1 expression are linked to several diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, gastric cancer, intestinal cancer, colon cancer, ovarian cancer, hypertension, and liver cirrhosis. These studies, although limited, suggest a novel role for the protein as an important diagnostic marker and a potential target for gene therapies. This review analyzes recent data about the role of MYPT1 in the regulation of vascular tone in both health and disease.