RAC2 Human, 189a.a

Ras-Related C3 Botulinum Toxin Substrate 2 (RAC2) is a small signaling G protein, specifically a GTPase, that belongs to the Rac subfamily of the Rho family of GTPases. These proteins play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including cell growth, cytoskeletal reorganization, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by NADPH oxidase .

RAC2 is a plasma membrane-associated protein that cycles between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state. In its active state, RAC2 binds to a variety of effector proteins to regulate cellular responses such as secretory processes, phagocytosis of apoptotic cells, and epithelial cell polarization . The human recombinant form of RAC2 (1-189) refers to a specific segment of the protein that has been synthesized using recombinant DNA technology.

The activity of RAC2 is regulated by several factors:

• Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factors (GEFs): These promote the exchange of bound GDP for free GTP, thus activating RAC2.
• GTPase Activating Proteins (GAPs): These increase the GTP hydrolysis activity, thereby inactivating RAC2.
• GDP Dissociation Inhibitors (GDIs): These inhibit the dissociation of GDP from RAC2, maintaining it in an inactive state .

RAC2 plays a significant role in the immune system, particularly in the function of neutrophils. It is involved in the regulation of the oxidative burst, a rapid release of reactive oxygen species used by neutrophils to destroy pathogens . Mutations in the RAC2 gene can lead to immunodeficiency disorders characterized by defective neutrophil chemotaxis and recurrent infections .

Mutations in RAC2 have been associated with various immunodeficiency disorders. For example, Immunodeficiency 73A (IMD73A) is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by variants affecting the RAC2 gene. This condition is characterized by recurrent infections, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, and poor wound healing . Another related disorder, Immunodeficiency 73B (IMD73B), involves respiratory infections, cellulitis, severe invasive infections, and impaired neutrophil chemotaxis .

The study of RAC2 and its role in cellular processes has significant implications for understanding and treating various diseases. Research into the recombinant form of RAC2 (1-189) can provide insights into its function and regulation, potentially leading to the development of targeted therapies for conditions associated with RAC2 dysfunction .