What is Ras Explain how it works and its role in cancerSolut

What is Ras? Explain how it works and its role in cancer

Solution

Ras is the name given to a group of proteins involved in cell growth. It is membrane-associated guanine nucleotide-binding protein. Ras proteins are present in all animal cells. They act as cellular signal transductors. Ras proteins are activated by growth factors, Receptor tyrosine kinases and T cell receptors. When Ras is activated, it participates in a cascade of reactions which ultimately result in cell growth. Due to mutation or defective Ras protein, if the Ras remains in activated state forever, it results in uncontrolled growth of the cell which we call cancer.