GEFs and Cancer

Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) are proteins that regulate cell growth and movement by activating small molecules called GTPases. In cancer, GEFs can become overactive or dysregulated, leading to abnormal activation of GTPases. This can promote uncontrolled cell division, invasion, and metastasis. Essentially, when GEFs malfunction, they can contribute to the development and progression of cancer by encouraging cells to grow and spread in ways that are harmful. Understanding GEFs helps researchers develop targeted therapies to interrupt these processes and potentially treat or prevent cancer.