An ARF GTPase is a small GTP-binding protein involved in membrane organization and coat recruitment. Nucleotide exchange promotes a membrane-associated active state that recruits selected effectors, while hydrolysis contributes to turnover of the assembly. ARF1 is a prominent regulator of coatomer recruitment at Golgi-associated membranes. Different family members and effectors act in different locations, so the family name does not specify one universal cargo route. [ref]
Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th edition by Bruce Alberts and others. Chapter 13, Coat proteins and vesicle budding: ARF and COPI
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