Ras-related protein Rab-6C (RAB6C)

Ras-related protein Rab-6C (RAB6C) is a member of the Rab GTPase family, a group of small GTP-binding proteins that regulate intracellular vesicle transport and membrane trafficking processes[1][5]. RAB6C is a primate-specific retrogene derived from the RAB6A' transcript and encodes a protein localized primarily to the centrosome, with a unique noncanonical GTP-binding domain conferring diminished GTP-affinity compared to conventional Rab proteins[2][3]. It is expressed in selected tissues, including brain, testis, prostate, and breast[2]. RAB6C plays roles in centrosome integrity and cell cycle progression; overexpression can induce G1 arrest, while loss can cause abnormal centrosome numbers and tetraploidy[2]. RAB6C expression is frequently altered in cancer, with evidence of upregulation in bladder cancer and a role as a prognostic marker in certain breast cancers—particularly estrogen receptor positive/progesterone receptor negative subtypes[4][6][7]. It may act as a tumor promoter in some settings by augmenting proliferation and invasion (e.g., bladder cancer), but some studies indicate a possible tumor suppressor role depending on context and cancer subtype[4][6]. There is also evidence linking RAB6C to mechanisms of drug resistance in specific cancer cells[4]. Currently, there are no known drugs directly targeting RAB6C in clinical use or trials.

Other names

RAB6CWTH3member RAS oncogene familyRab6-like protein WTH3ras-related protein Rab-6C