Regulation of vascular endothelial cell barrier function and cytoskeleton structure by protein phosphatases of the PPP family

Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 2007 Oct;293(4):L843-54. doi: 10.1152/ajplung.00120.2007. Epub 2007 Aug 10.

Abstract

Reversible phosphorylation of cytoskeletal and cytoskeleton-associated proteins is a significant element of endothelial barrier function regulation. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of endothelial cell cytoskeletal proteins is vital to the treatment of severe lung disorders such as high permeability pulmonary edema. In vivo, there is a controlled balance between the activities of protein kinases and phosphatases. Due to various external or internal signals, this balance may be shifted. The actual balances at a given time alter the phosphorylation level of certain proteins with appropriate physiological consequences. The latest information about the structure and regulation of different types of Ser/Thr protein phosphatases participating in the regulation of endothelial cytoskeletal organization and barrier function will be reviewed here.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Capillary Permeability / physiology*
  • Cytoskeleton / physiology*
  • Cytoskeleton / ultrastructure*
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism*
  • Endothelial Cells / ultrastructure*
  • Humans
  • Phosphoprotein Phosphatases / physiology*

Substances

  • Phosphoprotein Phosphatases