p63 is a key regulator of iRHOM2 signalling in the keratinocyte stress response.

Hyperproliferative keratinocytes induced by trauma, hyperkeratosis and/or inflammation display molecular signatures similar to those of palmoplantar epidermis. Inherited gain-of-function mutations in RHBDF2 (encoding iRHOM2) are associated with a hyperproliferative palmoplantar keratoderma and squamous oesophageal cancer syndrome (termed TOC). In contrast, genetic ablation of rhbdf2 in mice leads to a thinning of the mammalian footpad, and reduces keratinocyte hyperproliferation and migration.

Rhomboid family member 2 regulates cytoskeletal stress-associated Keratin 16.

Keratin 16 (K16) is a cytoskeletal scaffolding protein highly expressed at pressure-bearing sites of the mammalian footpad. It can be induced in hyperproliferative states such as wound healing, inflammation and cancer. Here we show that the inactive rhomboid protease RHBDF2 (iRHOM2) regulates thickening of the footpad epidermis through its interaction with K16.

Impaired myogenic properties of cerebral arteries from the Brown Norway rat.

Objectives: The Brown Norway rat is highly susceptible to cerebral haemorrhage when hypertension is induced experimentally, compared with the Long Evans. The aims of the study were to compare the myogenic properties and also the collagen-staining profile of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and a small systemic artery (cremaster) from Brown Norway and Long Evans rats.

Methods: In-vitro pressure myography was used to compare the myogenic properties and the distensibility of MCA and cremaster arteries from Brown Norway rat, with those of the Long Evans rat.