RHOC
Description
The RHOC (ras homolog family member C) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 1.
RhoC, a small signaling G protein encoded by the RHOC gene, belongs to the Rac subfamily of Rho GTPases. It localizes to the cytoplasm and plasma membrane and plays a crucial role in cell movement. RhoC exists in two states: inactive (GDP-bound) and active (GTP-bound), acting as a molecular switch in signal transduction pathways. It promotes reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton, regulating cell shape and motility. RhoC activates formins like mDia1 and FMNL2 to remodel the cytoskeleton. Overexpression of RhoC is linked to cell proliferation and tumor malignancy. It causes the degradation and reconstruction of the extracellular matrix (ECM), facilitating cell escape from tissues. RhoC enhances cell motility, enabling invasion. Its expression directly correlates with advanced tumor stage and metastasis, indicating a role in tumor progression.
RHOC regulates a signaling pathway that connects plasma membrane receptors to the assembly of focal adhesions and actin stress fibers. It acts as a microtubule-dependent signal, essential for the formation of the myosin contractile ring during cell division. Additionally, RHOC regulates the formation of apical junctions in bronchial epithelial cells.
RHOC is also known as ARH9, ARHC, H9, RHOH9.
