Ras-related protein Rab-3A (RAB3A)

Ras-related protein Rab-3A (RAB3A) is a small GTPase of the Rab family that plays a central role in the regulation of synaptic vesicle trafficking and neurotransmitter release, particularly in neurons[1][2][3][7]. RAB3A controls the recruitment, tethering, and docking of secretory vesicles to the plasma membrane, cycling between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state[1][2][3][6]. This cycling is essential for proper timing and localization of vesicle fusion, making RAB3A a key regulator of calcium-triggered exocytosis and synaptic plasticity[2][3][4][6]. RAB3A interacts with several effectors such as rabphilin-3A and the RIMS proteins, which mediate its function in exocytosis[3][8]. Dysfunction of RAB3A has been implicated in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, including intellectual disability and potential roles in Parkinson's disease, due to interactions with proteins like alpha-synuclein[7][8]. While not a direct target of approved therapies, RAB3A is of interest as a potential therapeutic target for diseases involving synaptic dysfunction.

Other names

RAB3ARas-related protein Rab-3ARAS-associated protein RAB3Aras-related protein Rab-3A

Modulation of synaptic vesicle trafficking (experimental, not directly targeted by approved drugs)