Abstract
Rho-associated protein kinases (ROCKs) play key roles in mediating the control of the actin cytoskeleton by Rho family GTPases in response to extracellular signals. Such signaling pathways contribute to diverse neuronal functions from cell migration to axonal guidance to dendritic spine morphology to axonal regeneration to cell survival. In this review, the authors summarize biochemical knowledge of ROCK function and categorize neuronal ROCK-dependent signaling pathways. Further study of ROCK signal transduction mechanisms and specificities will enhance our understanding of brain development, plasticity, and repair. The ROCK pathway also provides a potential site for therapeutic intervention to promote neuronal regeneration and to limit degeneration.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cell Adhesion Molecules / physiology
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Central Nervous System / enzymology
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Central Nervous System / physiology
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Cytoskeleton / physiology
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Cytoskeleton / ultrastructure
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Humans
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Lipoproteins / physiology
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Myelin Proteins / physiology
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / physiology
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Neurons / enzymology*
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Neurons / physiology*
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Nogo Proteins
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Protein Processing, Post-Translational / genetics
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Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / physiology
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Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / physiology
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Receptors, Immunologic / physiology
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Roundabout Proteins
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Signal Transduction / physiology
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rho GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism
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rho GTP-Binding Proteins / physiology*
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rho-Associated Kinases / metabolism
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rho-Associated Kinases / physiology*
Substances
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Cell Adhesion Molecules
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Lipoproteins
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Myelin Proteins
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Nerve Tissue Proteins
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Nogo Proteins
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RTN4 protein, human
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Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
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Receptors, Immunologic
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plexin
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Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases
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rho-Associated Kinases
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rho GTP-Binding Proteins