Overview:

ROCK2 is a ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine kinase localized in the nucleus that regulates cytokinesis, smooth muscle contraction, the formation of actin stress fibers and focal adhesions, and the activation of the c-fos serum response element (1). ROCK2 is an immediate downstream target of the small GTPase RhoA. ROCK2 may play a pivotal role in cardiovascular diseases such as vasospastic angina, ischemic stroke, and heart failure. Inhibition of ROCKs by statins or other selective inhibitors leads to the upregulation and activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and reduction of vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis (2).

References:

1. Zhao, Z. et al: Rho-associated kinases play a role in endocardial cell differentiation and migration. Dev Biol. 2004 Nov 1;275(1):183-91.

2. Noma, K. et al: Physiological role of ROCKs in the cardiovascular system. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. 2006 Mar;290(3):C661-8.