Rala
Function
Multifunctional GTPase involved in a variety of cellular processes including gene expression, cell migration, cell proliferation, oncogenic transformation and membrane trafficking. Accomplishes its multiple functions by interacting with distinct downstream effectors. Acts as a GTP sensor for GTP-dependent exocytosis of dense core vesicles. Key regulator of LPAR1 signaling and competes with GRK2 for binding to LPAR1 thus affecting the signaling properties of the receptor. Required for anchorage-independent proliferation of transformed cells (By similarity). The RALA-exocyst complex regulates integrin-dependent membrane raft exocytosis and growth signaling (PubMed:20005108). During mitosis, supports the stabilization and elongation of the intracellular bridge between dividing cells. Cooperates with EXOC2 to recruit other components of the exocyst to the early midbody (By similarity). During mitosis, also controls mitochondrial fission by recruiting to the mitochondrion RALBP1, which mediates the phosphorylation and activation of DNM1L by the mitotic kinase cyclin B-CDK1 (By similarity).
Post-translational modifications
Prenylation is essential for membrane localization.
Phosphorylated. Phosphorylation at Ser-194 by AURKA/Aurora kinase A, during mitosis, induces RALA localization to the mitochondrion where it regulates mitochondrial fission.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the small GTPase superfamily. Ras family.
Cellular localization
- Cell membrane
- Lipid-anchor
- Cytoplasmic side
- Cleavage furrow
- Midbody
- Midbody ring
- Mitochondrion
- Predominantly at the cell surface in the absence of LPA. In the presence of LPA, colocalizes with LPAR1 and LPAR2 in endocytic vesicles. May colocalize with CNTRL/centriolin at the midbody ring. However, localization at the midbody at late cytokinesis was not confirmed. Relocalizes to the mitochondrion during mitosis where it regulates mitochondrial fission.
Alternative names
Ral, Ral-a, Rala, Ras-related protein Ral-A