C-Reactive Protein Inhibits Endothelium-Dependent Nitric Oxide-Mediated Dilation of Retinal Arterioles via Enhanced Superoxide Production

CRP inhibits endothelium-dependent NO-mediated dilation in retinal arterioles by producing superoxide from NAD(P)H oxidase, which appears to be linked with p38 kinase and RhoA/Rho-kinase activation. By impairing endothelium-dependent NO-mediated vasoreactivity, CRP can potentially facilitate the development of retinal vascular diseases. In addition, statins are beneficial by preserving endothelial function, possibly through inactivation of the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway.