A Rab GTPase is a small GTP-binding protein that regulates membrane traffic. GDP- and GTP-bound states differ in their interactions with effectors, while exchange factors and GTPase-activating proteins regulate the cycle. Different Rabs act at different trafficking stages, helping organize compartment identity, motor recruitment and carrier targeting. Rab8a and Rab11a illustrate related switches with different preferred routes and partners. [ref]
Rab Conversion as a Mechanism of Progression from Early to Late Endosomes by Jochen Rink and others. 2005, Rab5-to-Rab7 transition and endosomal identity
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