The chemical class of cytohesin-2 inhibitors encompasses a diverse range of compounds that indirectly influence the function of cytohesin-2 by targeting various signaling pathways and cellular processes related to ARF regulation, vesicular trafficking, and signal transduction. These inhibitors act on different stages and elements of ARF-mediated processes, as well as on signal transduction pathways where cytohesin-2 plays a significant role.
Compounds such as Brefeldin A and Golgicide A target the function and structure of the Golgi apparatus, which is critical in ARF-mediated vesicular transport. Brefeldin A disrupts ARF protein function by inhibiting guanine nucleotide exchange, which can significantly impact the regulatory role of cytohesin-2 in this process. Golgicide A's action on the Golgi apparatus further emphasizes the impact on vesicular transport processes involving cytohesin-2. SecinH3, a specific inhibitor of cytohesins, directly targets the ARF-GEF activity of cytohesin-2, demonstrating a more direct approach in influencing its function. In addition to these, inhibitors of small GTPases and kinases, such as ML141, NSC23766, LY294002, Wortmannin, modulate various signaling pathways and cellular dynamics where cytohesin-2 is involved. ML141 and NSC23766 inhibit Cdc42 and Rac1, respectively, affecting signaling pathways and vesicular trafficking processes. LY294002 and Wortmannin, as PI3K inhibitors, impact signal transduction pathways critical for various cellular functions in which cytohesin-2 is implicated.