Rab3A small GTP-binding protein in Ca(2+)-dependent exocytosis

Abstract

There exists a small GTP-binding protein (G protein) superfamily, consisting of more than 50 members, from yeast to mammal. The Rab family belongs to this superfamily and is implicated in intracellular vesicle trafficking. Rab3A small G protein is a member of the Rab3 subfamily which belongs to this Rab family. The regulators and downstream targets of Rab3A have been isolated, and evidence is accumulating that Rab3A and these Rab3A-interacting proteins are involved in Ca(2+)-dependent exocytosis, particularly in neurotransmitter release from nerve terminals.