Rab7, a multifaceted GTP-binding protein regulating access to degradative compartments in eukaryotic cells

Small GTPases of the Rab subfamily localise to the cytoplasmic face of distinct membrane compartments and act as regulators of intracellular membrane traffic and transport vesicle formation. Among them. Rab7 controls the delivery of internalised material into degradative compartments and the acquisition of lysosomal hydrolases. This activity shapes the endocytic pathway of every cell type. In addition, this general role may adjust to serve specific needs in multicellular organisms.