Ras protein-specific guanine nucleotide-releasing factor 1 (RASGRF1)

Ras protein-specific guanine nucleotide-releasing factor 1 (RASGRF1) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that activates the small GTPase Ras by promoting the exchange of GDP for GTP, thereby triggering downstream signaling pathways, particularly the Ras/MAPK cascade[1][2][3]. It is structurally complex, containing multiple regulatory domains including CDC25 (catalyzing GEF activity towards Ras GTPases), REM (stabilization), PH (lipid interaction), IQ (calmodulin and calcium binding), and DH (mediating GEF activity toward Rac GTPases, another family of small GTPases)[2][3]. Predominantly expressed in the brain and involved in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory, RASGRF1 also functions in pancreatic β-cell proliferation and glucose metabolism. Dysregulation contributes to cognitive deficits, certain metabolic syndromes, and may play a role in oncogenic signaling[1][2][3][4]. RASGRF1 is a paternally imprinted gene and should not be confused with the Cdc25 phosphatases despite historical nomenclature overlap[1].

Other names

Ras-GRF1GRF1CDC25 (not to be confused with Cdc25 phosphatases)Ras guanine nucleotide-releasing factor 1

Drugs targeting this molecule (if developed) would aim to inhibit its GEF activity to reduce Ras pathway activation, modulate synaptic plasticity, or affect neurodevelopment and metabolism; see description for related pathway modulation[1][2][3].