Focal adhesion kinase: an essential kinase in the regulation of cardiovascular functions.
Recent studies using animal models have demonstrated an important role for FAK in the cardiovascular system. In particular, FAK is essential for angiogenesis in the embryo, functions in heart development and modulates the response of cardiomyocytes to pressure overload in adult mice. FAK function at the cellular level is discussed to provide insight into the mechanisms regulating these biological events and the role of FAK in controlling endothelial junctions and responses to mechanical stimulation are discussed.
Vadali
Kavita
K
Department of Cell & Developmental Biology and Carolina Cardiovascular Biology Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA.
Cai
Xinming
X
Schaller
Michael D
MD
D000818:Animals; D002320:Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena; D002319:Cardiovascular System / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D002465:Cell Movement; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D051416:Focal Adhesion Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D018919:Neovascularization, Physiologic; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology; D013314:Stress, Mechanical
D051416:Focal Adhesion Protein-Tyrosine Kinases