Cyclic GMP Pathway (cGMP pathway)

The cyclic GMP (cGMP) pathway is a fundamental intracellular signaling cascade in which cGMP acts as a second messenger. It regulates numerous physiological processes, including vasodilation, phototransduction, calcium homeostasis, cell growth, apoptosis, and neuronal signaling. The pathway is activated by nitric oxide (NO) or natriuretic peptides, leading to cGMP synthesis and subsequent activation of downstream effectors like PKGs and cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels. Dysregulation is implicated in various diseases and thus it serves as a target for therapeutic interventions.

Other names

Cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway

Modulation of cGMP levels through guanylyl cyclase activation or phosphodiesterase inhibition, leading to downstream effects via PKGs and other effectors.