CDC42

CDC42 (Cell Division Control Protein 42 Homolog), is a member of the Rho GTPase family that plays a critical role in various cellular functions including cell morphology, cell cycle progression, and cell signaling pathways. It is encoded by the CDC42 gene in humans. This protein is pivotal in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, which is essential for processes such as migration, endocytosis, and cell division.

Function

CDC42 acts as a molecular switch in the cell, cycling between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state. It is involved in several key cellular processes:

• Actin Cytoskeleton Regulation: CDC42 controls the formation of actin filaments and structures such as filopodia and lamellipodia, affecting cell shape and movement.
• Cell Cycle Progression: It plays a role in the transition from G1 phase to S phase of the cell cycle.
• Signal Transduction Pathways: CDC42 is involved in various signaling pathways that influence cell growth, differentiation, and survival.
• Endocytosis and Exocytosis: It regulates vesicle trafficking, impacting processes like nutrient intake and neurotransmitter release.

Structure

The structure of CDC42 includes a highly conserved GTPase domain, which allows it to bind and hydrolyze GTP. It also contains a C-terminal prenylation site, which facilitates its attachment to cell membranes and interaction with other proteins.

Pathology

Alterations in CDC42 function or expression can contribute to various diseases, including:

• Cancer: Overexpression or constitutive activation of CDC42 has been linked to tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis.
• Neurological disorders: Abnormal CDC42 signaling can affect neuronal shape and function, potentially contributing to conditions such as intellectual disability and neurodegeneration.
• Immune disorders: CDC42 is crucial for immune cell migration and function; dysregulation can lead to impaired immune responses.

Research and Clinical Implications

Understanding the role of CDC42 in disease has led to the development of inhibitors targeting its pathway for therapeutic purposes, particularly in cancer treatment. Research continues to explore its potential as a biomarker for disease diagnosis and prognosis.

See Also

• Rho family of GTPases
• GTPase
• Cell cycle
• Actin cytoskeleton
• Signal transduction

External Links

• CDC42 Gene - NCBI
• CDC42 Protein - UniProt