Ras Homolog Gene Family Member C (RHOC) is a small signaling G protein, specifically a GTPase, and a member of the Rac subfamily within the Rho family of GTPases . The RHOC gene encodes this protein, which plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including cell shape, attachment, and motility . RHOC is known for its involvement in the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and regulation of cell locomotion .
The RHOC gene is located on chromosome 1 (1p13.2) in humans . The protein encoded by this gene is approximately 21 kDa in size and is prenylated at its C-terminus, allowing it to localize to the cytoplasm and plasma membrane . RHOC cycles between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound states, functioning as a molecular switch in signal transduction cascades .
RHOC is essential for various biological processes, including: