Flow-dependent regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase: role of protein kinases

YC Boo, H Jo - American Journal of Physiology-Cell …, 2003 - journals.physiology.org
American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology, 2003journals.physiology.org
Vascular endothelial cells are directly and continuously exposed to fluid shear stress
generated by blood flow. Shear stress regulates endothelial structure and function by
controlling expression of mechanosensitive genes and production of vasoactive factors such
as nitric oxide (NO). Though it is well known that shear stress stimulates NO production from
endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), the underlying molecular mechanisms remain
unclear and controversial. Shear-induced production of NO involves Ca2+/calmodulin …
Vascular endothelial cells are directly and continuously exposed to fluid shear stress generated by blood flow. Shear stress regulates endothelial structure and function by controlling expression of mechanosensitive genes and production of vasoactive factors such as nitric oxide (NO). Though it is well known that shear stress stimulates NO production from endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear and controversial. Shear-induced production of NO involves Ca2+/calmodulin-independent mechanisms, including phosphorylation of eNOS at several sites and its interaction with other proteins, including caveolin and heat shock protein-90. There have been conflicting results as to which protein kinases—protein kinase A, protein kinase B (Akt), other Ser/Thr protein kinases, or tyrosine kinases—are responsible for shear-dependent eNOS regulation. The functional significance of each phosphorylation site is still unclear. We have attempted to summarize the current status of understanding in shear-dependent eNOS regulation.
American Physiological Society