RAB24 is a small GTP-binding protein known to function in autophagy, an intracellular recycling pathway. RAB24 is important for health. It supports the survival of neurons, and mutations in RAB24 cause ataxia, lack of coordination of muscle movements, in dogs. RAB24 promotes malignancy of liver cancer, and its overexpression enhances liver fat accumulation. RAB24 facilitates cancer cell survival by decreasing cell death, promoting growth and increasing cell motility. This project will elucidate the molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of RAB24 in neurons and hepatocytes. We will screen for proteins that interact with RAB24 and investigate the molecular mechanisms they use to regulate RAB24. The results have potential to open possibilities for the development of new treatments for neurodegeneration, cancer and fatty liver disease.

2022

2026