Rho GTPase-activating protein 44 (ARHGAP44)

Rho GTPase-activating protein 44 (ARHGAP44) is a cytoplasmic enzyme that acts as a GTPase-activating protein (GAP) for Rho-type GTPases, specifically targeting Rac1 and Cdc42[1][2][3]. By enhancing the intrinsic GTPase activity of these small G-proteins, ARHGAP44 controls their cycling between active and inactive states, thereby regulating signaling pathways that govern actin cytoskeleton dynamics, dendritic spine morphology, and synaptic function in neurons[1][2][3][6]. It is highly expressed in the central nervous system, particularly in cortical and hippocampal neurons, where it plays crucial roles in neuron differentiation, spine morphogenesis, and synapse formation/maintenance[2]. Dysregulation or high expression of ARHGAP44 has been linked to increased metastasis and poorer prognosis in various cancers, including osteosarcoma, melanoma, hepatocellular, and lung carcinoma[1][4]. Although no drugs currently target ARHGAP44 directly, its disease involvement and regulatory roles mark it as a functionally significant molecule with potential as a diagnostic or prognostic biomarker, particularly in oncology[1][4][6].

Other names

RhoGAP interacting with CIP4 homologs protein 2RICH2KIAA0672NPC-A-10Rho-type GTPase-activating protein RICH2RICH-2RHG44Rho GTPase activating protein 44

Not applicable (no specific drugs known to target ARHGAP44 directly as of current knowledge)