Small GTPases

Small GTPases are tiny molecular switches inside cells that regulate a wide range of cellular processes, such as movement, growth, and communication. They toggle between an active form (bound to GTP) and an inactive form (bound to GDP). When active, they interact with other proteins to trigger specific functions. These proteins are essential for maintaining normal cell activity and responding to external signals, and they play roles in development, immune responses, and cell transport. Proper regulation of small GTPases is vital for health, and their malfunction is linked to diseases like cancer.