Role of Rho Family Small GTPases in the Regulation of Normal and Pathological Processes

Small GTPases are monomeric (approximately 21 kDa) proteins that regulate a number of biological processes, such as vesicle transport, cell division cycle, cell migration, invasion, adhesion, proliferation, and DNA repair. They are also involved in carcinogenesis and neurodegenerative diseases. Some of these proteins, such as the Rho family proteins, are essential regulators of actin cytoskeleton, controlling cell adhesion and motility. This review examines both normal and pathological processes in human cells that are regulated by small GTPases of the Rho family. Particular attention is paid to small GTPase inhibitors and their use in the treatment of various diseases.