Concept
Concept
Sar1 GTPase is a small GTP-binding protein that plays a critical role in the regulation of COPII vesicle formation, which is essential for the transport of proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi apparatus. It acts as a molecular switch, cycling between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state to control the assembly and disassembly of the COPII coat complex.
Concept
Arf GTPases are a family of small GTP-binding proteins that play a crucial role in vesicular trafficking and actin cytoskeleton dynamics. They act as molecular switches, cycling between active GTP-bound and inactive GDP-bound states to regulate membrane curvature and recruit coat proteins for vesicle formation.
Concept
GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) are crucial regulators of GTPases, accelerating their intrinsic GTP hydrolysis activity to terminate signaling pathways. By converting active GTP-bound GTPases to their inactive GDP-bound state, GAPs play a pivotal role in controlling cellular processes such as cell growth, cytoskeletal reorganization, and vesicle trafficking.
Concept
Rheb (Ras homolog enriched in brain) is a small GTPase that plays a crucial role in the mTOR signaling pathway, particularly in cell growth, proliferation, and survival. It acts as a molecular switch, cycling between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state, thereby regulating the activity of mTORC1.
Concept
Ran GTPase is a critical regulatory protein involved in the nucleocytoplasmic transport of RNA and proteins, functioning by alternating between a GTP- and GDP-bound state. This gradient-driven mechanism regulates the directionality and selectivity of transport across the nuclear envelope, maintaining essential cellular functions and integrity.
3