Rho-related GTP-binding protein RhoJ (RHOJ)

Rho-related GTP-binding protein RhoJ is a member of the small Rho GTPase family, specifically closely related to Cdc42 and part of the Cdc42 subfamily. Highly expressed in endothelial cells, RhoJ regulates dynamic assembly of cytoskeletal elements, controlling processes such as cell migration, tube and lumen formation, focal adhesion turnover, and endosomal trafficking of integral membrane proteins—thus playing a central role in vascular development and remodeling. RhoJ is activated by extracellular signals like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and semaphorin 3E, and its function is regulated by endothelial transcription factors such as ERG. RhoJ also modulates actin cytoskeleton reorganization by affecting the activity of other Rho GTPases, such as Cdc42, Rac1, and RhoA, and impacts downstream effectors like PAK kinases. Beyond vascular biology, RhoJ has emerged as an important context-dependent regulator of cancer progression, influencing cell migration, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and chemoresistance through its cytoskeletal and signaling roles. No known drugs currently target RhoJ directly, but its role in angiogenesis and cancer makes it a potential therapeutic target and biomarker for vascular and tumor biology.

Other names

RASL7BARHJRHOITCLFLJ14445Ras-like protein family member 7BTc10-like GTP-binding proteinTC10BTC10-like Rho GTPaseras homolog gene family, member J

Drugs/compounds targeting this molecule would likely modulate endothelial cell migration, angiogenesis, and cytoskeletal dynamics by inhibiting or activating its GTPase activity or interfering with its regulatory partners (such as ERG or downstream effectors like PAK1)