Small G-proteins or GTPases are involved in regulating nearly all cellular processes. Depending on whether they are in a GTP- or GDP-bound state, these proteins show different structural and biochemical features, enabling them to act as molecular switches. Proteins in the Ras superfamily are the most known members of the small GTPases, with over 150 members of the Ras small G-protein family encoded in the human genome. However, despite their central role, for many of these members, their functions and involvement in health and disease remains elusive.
In the Mechanistic Molecular Biochemistry group, the research is focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of several specific small G-proteins using various biochemical, structural and cell biological approaches, as well as utilizing novel methods in drug development to target small G-proteins involved in disease. This knowledge can then be employed to better understand their role in diseases and to design novel therapeutics.
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