RABAC1

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RABAC1, also known as PRA1, PRAF1, or YIP3, encodes the Prenylated Rab acceptor 1 protein. It is a conserved protein that sits mainly in the Golgi apparatus and late endosomes, where it helps regulate vesicle trafficking, lipid transport, and cell migration. It interacts with many Rab GTPases and with VAMP2, linking it to key pathways that move and modify cellular membranes.

Genomic location:
- Humans: chromosome 19, region 19q13.2 (approximately 41.956–41.959 Mb).
- Mice: chromosome 7 (approximately 24.669–24.672 Mb).

Expression:
- The gene is widely expressed in many tissues. In humans, higher levels are found in the thoracic and ascending aorta, pituitary gland, tissues related to the uterus and cervix, and the hypothalamus. In mice, notable expression occurs in the choroid plexus of the fourth ventricle, seminal vesicle, lactiferous gland, several brain regions (e.g., CA3, entorhinal cortex), and other tissues such as the lung and salivary glands.

Why it matters:
- By coordinating vesicle trafficking and lipid handling, RABAC1 supports essential cellular functions, including material movement within cells and processes like cell migration.