Abstract
In animals, RAB5 GTPase is known as a molecular switch regulating various aspects of endosomal functions including membrane fusion, motility, and alteration of lipid compositions. RAB5 fulfill these diverse functions through the interactions with effector molecules. In Arabidopsis thaliana, there are two conventional type of RAB5 members, ARA7 and RHA1. The ara7 rha1 double mutant shows gametophytic lethality, which indicates redundancy in their functions and essentiality. Signals delivered from these plant RAB5s should be also mediated via effector molecules to induce downstream reactions, but no such effectors have been identified thus far.
We looked for effectors of A. thaliana RAB5s by the yeast two-hybrid method. We found that one of the candidates is translocated in a cell depending on the nucleotide state of ARA7. In this meeting, we will report the biochemical and cytological properties of these effector candidates.
