Ras p21 protein activator 2

Ras p21 protein activator 2 (RasGAP), also known as RASA2, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RASA2 gene. This protein is part of the GTPase-activating protein (GAP) family, which function as modulators of the Ras superfamily of proteins.

Function

Ras p21 protein activator 2 is a GTPase activating protein (GAP) for the Ras protein. It converts active Ras-GTP to the inactive form Ras-GDP. This protein is crucial in cellular signaling pathways, controlling cell growth, differentiation, and survival.

Structure

The RASA2 protein is composed of several domains, including a pleckstrin homology domain (PH domain), a C2 domain, and a GAP domain. The PH and C2 domains are involved in membrane targeting, while the GAP domain is responsible for the GTPase activating function.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the RASA2 gene have been associated with various types of cancer, including lung cancer, breast cancer, and melanoma. These mutations often result in a loss of function of the RASA2 protein, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation.

See also

• Ras superfamily
• GTPase-activating protein
• Ras protein

References

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