[Research progress of Rab proteins in neurodegenerative diseases]
Yun Li1, Xue Wang1, Jun-Xia Xie1
1Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine; Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
Abstract:
As a member of the Ras superfamily, Rab proteins are small GTP-binding proteins. In the process of endocytosis of macromolecules and substances delivery between organelles, Rab proteins act on vesicle formation, transport, tethering and fusion by recruiting their effectors, therefore being key regulatory factors in vesicle trafficking. Disturbance of localizations and functions of Rab proteins and their effectors are involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases. This review focuses on the main functions of Rab proteins and their possible roles in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease.
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