Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (Rac)

Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (Rac) refers to a subfamily of small GTPases within the Rho family, primarily Rac1, Rac2 and Rac3. These proteins regulate cell signaling pathways, controlling cytoskeleton reorganization, gene expression, cell growth, differentiation, survival, and inflammatory responses. They act as molecular switches, cycling between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound states. Dysregulation of Rac activity is implicated in cancer and chronic inflammatory conditions, making it a potential therapeutic target.

Other names

Rac1Rac2Rac3

Rac proteins act as molecular switches, cycling between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound states. Activation involves GEFs promoting GDP-GTP exchange, enabling interaction with downstream effectors. Inhibition can occur through bacterial toxins (like C3 exoenzyme) or specific inhibitors targeting Rac activity or GEF interaction.