ARHGEF12

ARHGEF12, also known as LARG2 (Leukemia-associated Rho Guanine nucleotide Exchange Factor 2), is a human gene that encodes a Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (RhoGEF). RhoGEFs are a family of proteins that activate Rho GTPases by catalyzing the exchange of GDP for GTP, thereby promoting their active conformation. Rho GTPases, in turn, are key regulators of numerous cellular processes, including cytoskeletal organization, cell adhesion, cell motility, and gene transcription.

The ARHGEF12 protein contains a Dbl homology (DH) domain, which is characteristic of RhoGEFs and is responsible for its catalytic activity. It also contains a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, which is often involved in membrane targeting and protein-protein interactions.

ARHGEF12 is implicated in a variety of cellular functions, including the regulation of cell morphology, stress fiber formation, and cell migration. It is activated by G alpha 12/13 subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins, linking G protein-coupled receptor signaling to Rho GTPase activation.

The gene encoding ARHGEF12 is located on human chromosome 8q22.1. Dysregulation of ARHGEF12 has been implicated in some types of cancer, suggesting a potential role in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Research suggests it plays a role in chemoresistance in certain cancers.