Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 23, 2026

Detection of Small GTPase Prenylation and GTP Binding Using Membrane Fractionation and GTPase-linked Immunosorbent Assay
Published on: November 11, 2018
RAL GTPases are linchpin modulators of human tumour-cell proliferation and survival
Yuchen Chien1, Michael A White
1Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390-9039, USA.
Abstract:
The monomeric RAL (RAS-like) GTPases have been indirectly implicated in mitogenic regulation and cell transformation. Here, we show that RALA and RALB collaborate to maintain tumorigenicity through regulation of both proliferation and survival. Remarkably, this task is divided between these highly homologous isoforms. RALB is specifically required for survival of tumour cells but not normal cells. RALA is dispensable for survival, but is required for anchorage-independent proliferation. Reducing the 'oncogenic burden' in human tumour cells relieves the sensitivity to loss of RALB. These observations establish RAL GTPases as crucial components of the cellular machinery that are exploited by factors that drive oncogenic transformation.
Related Concept Videos
GTPases and their Regulation
Large G-proteins, also known...
Small GTPases - Ras and Rho
Three regulatory proteins control their activity:
The Ras Gene
Ras is a superfamily...
Activation and Inactivation of G Proteins
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
TGF - β Signaling Pathway

