GTPASES Meaning and
Definition
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GTPases are a group of enzymes that play a critical role in various cellular processes by hydrolyzing guanosine triphosphate (GTP) molecules to guanosine diphosphate (GDP), resulting in the release of energy. They belong to a larger family called the G-proteins, which are involved in signal transduction pathways and cellular communication.
GTPases are highly conserved across species, from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, and are classified into different subfamilies based on their sequence similarities and functional characteristics. Some well-known subfamilies of GTPases include Ras, Rho, Rab, and Arf.
These enzymes act as molecular switches, transitioning between an active, GTP-bound state and an inactive, GDP-bound state. The GTP-bound state allows GTPases to bind and interact with various downstream effector molecules, initiating specific cellular responses. Upon hydrolysis of GTP to GDP, GTPases undergo conformational changes that render them inactive, causing the dissociation of effectors and termination of the cellular response.
GTPases function in a wide range of cellular processes, including cell growth and proliferation, signal transduction, vesicle trafficking, cytoskeletal dynamics, and membrane remodeling. They serve as key regulators of cellular behavior, coordinating and integrating multiple signaling pathways.
Dysregulation or mutations in GTPases can have significant implications for cellular functions and contribute to various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and immune system dysfunction. Hence, GTPases have become important targets for drug development and therapeutic interventions.
Common Misspellings for GTPASES
- gtpasez
- ygtpases
- GTPa3es
- GTPaces
- GTPaqes
- GTPares
- GTPasus
- GTPasms
- GTPasas
- GTPasgs
- GTPasec
- GTPaseq
- g tpases
- gtpa ses
- gtpas es
- gtpase s
Etymology of GTPASES
The word "GTPases" is derived from the combination of two terms: "GTP" and "ases".
"GTP" stands for guanosine triphosphate, which is a molecule involved in various cellular processes as an energy source and a signaling molecule.
The suffix "-ases" refers to enzymes, proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body.
Therefore, "GTPases" refers to a group of enzymes called GTPases that hydrolyze GTP and participate in regulating different cellular activities, such as signal transduction, vesicular transport, and protein synthesis.
