RhoC

RhoC, also known as RhoC protein, is a small GTPase protein that plays a crucial role in cell signaling and cell cycle regulation. It is a member of the Rho family of small GTPases, which includes proteins like RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42. RhoC is primarily expressed in the brain and is involved in various cellular processes, including neuronal differentiation, synaptic plasticity, and axon guidance.

RhoC functions by cycling between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state. When activated, RhoC binds to and activates downstream effectors, such as Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK) and Rho-associated kinase (ROK). These effectors then mediate various cellular responses, including actin cytoskeleton reorganization, cell migration, and gene transcription.

RhoC has been implicated in several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Studies have shown that RhoC activation is associated with the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, RhoC has been found to regulate the expression of genes involved in synaptic plasticity and axon guidance, suggesting its role in learning and memory processes.

RhoC is also involved in cancer progression, particularly in the development of glioblastoma, a type of brain tumor. RhoC activation has been shown to promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis, as well as to regulate the expression of genes involved in cell cycle progression and apoptosis.

Overall, RhoC is a multifunctional protein that plays a critical role in various cellular processes, including cell signaling, cell cycle regulation, and neuronal differentiation. Its dysregulation has been linked to several neurological and cancer-related disorders, making it an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Further research is needed to fully understand the molecular mechanisms underlying RhoC function and to develop targeted therapies for the diseases associated with its dysregulation.