Methods and Compositions for Modulating RHO-Mediated Gene Transcription

A composition comprising an isolated compound that has a general structural formula (I):

• wherein R1 and R2, independently are selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halo, C1-3alkyl, C1-3alkoxy, CF3, OCF3, C1-2alkylOCH2, NO2, and CN, with the proviso that at least one of R1 and R2 is different from hydrogen;
• R3 is selected from the group consisting of halo, C1-3alkyl, C1-3alkoxy, CF3, OCF3, C1-2alkylOCH2, NO2, and CN:
• and
• L is a linking group about four to about eight atoms or functional groups in length, wherein said compound is present in an amount effective to inhibit rho-mediated gene transcription.