Structural clues to Rab GTPase functional diversity

Abstract

Rab GTPases are key regulators of membrane trafficking in eukaryotes. Recent structural analysis of a number of Rabs, either alone or in complex with partner proteins, has provided new insight into the importance of both conserved and non-conserved features of these proteins that specify their unique functions and localizations. This review will highlight what we have learned from crystallographic analysis of this important protein family.