Modulation of the expression of connective tissue growth factor by alterations of the cytoskeleton.

Modulation of the cytoskeletal architecture was shown to regulate the expression of CTGF (connective tissue growth factor, CCN2). The microtubule disrupting agents nocodazole and colchicine strongly up-regulated CTGF expression, which was prevented upon stabilization of the microtubules by paclitaxel. As a consequence of microtubule disruption, RhoA was activated and the actin stress fibers were stabilized.

Induction of connective tissue growth factor by angiotensin II: integration of signaling pathways.

Objective: Angiotensin II is recognized as one of the major mediators of cardiovascular pathology. Because connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is involved in the pathophysiologic processes underlying fibrotic diseases, its regulation by angiotensin II was investigated.

Methods And Results: In the 2-kidney, 1-clip model of renovascular hypertension, increased expression of CTGF was detectable in the hypertrophic left ventricle.