RAsCl

RAsCl, also known as Ras-association domain-containing protein 1, is a protein encoded by the RASSF1 gene in humans. This gene is part of the RASSF family of tumor suppressor genes. RASSF1 plays a critical role in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and inhibition of cell proliferation. It functions as a molecular scaffold, interacting with various signaling proteins, most notably those in the Ras GTPase pathway.

The RASSF1 protein is involved in a complex signaling network that can influence cell growth and survival. Its tumor suppressor activity is thought to arise from its ability to integrate signals that promote cell death or halt cell division in response to cellular stress or damage. Loss or inactivation of RASSF1 is frequently observed in a wide range of human cancers, including lung, breast, bladder, and liver cancers. This inactivation can occur through various mechanisms, such as epigenetic silencing (methylation of the RASSF1 promoter), mutations, or deletion of the gene.

Given its role as a tumor suppressor, RASSF1 is a subject of considerable research in cancer biology. Studies aim to understand its precise molecular mechanisms of action, its interactions with other proteins, and how its inactivation contributes to tumorigenesis. The identification of RASSF1 as a tumor suppressor highlights the importance of this gene in maintaining genomic stability and preventing uncontrolled cell growth.