Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Relaxation via Cyclic GMP Pathway (cGMP Pathway)

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) relaxation via the cyclic GMP (cGMP) pathway is a critical physiological process that regulates vascular tone and blood pressure. This pathway is primarily activated by nitric oxide (NO) or natriuretic peptides, which stimulate the production of cGMP in VSMCs. The increase in cGMP leads to activation of protein kinase G (PKG), resulting in a cascade of events that culminate in smooth muscle relaxation. Pharmacological agents targeting this pathway include nitrates, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and natriuretic peptides—all used clinically for their vasodilatory properties. Disruption or dysfunction within this signaling cascade can contribute to pathological conditions such as hypertension.

Other names

cGMP-PKG signaling pathway in vascular smooth muscleNitric oxide-cGMP pathwayNO-cGMP pathwayCyclic GMP signaling in VSMC

Stimulation of cGMP production, activation of PKG, leading to decreased intracellular calcium and smooth muscle relaxation.