RAP2A, Member Of RAS Oncogene Family (RAP2A)

RAP2A contains domains required for GTP binding and a Ras-like C-terminal motif for posttranslational lipid binding and subsequent anchoring to the plasma membrane. Northern blot analysis of lymphocyte mRNA detected transcripts of 2.2, 2.5, and 4.6 kb.Rap2a and Jnk, as well as their regulators, are expressed at excitatory synapses in rodent brain, and they identified a functional Rap2a signaling pathway in cultured mouse hippocampal CA1 neurons. Synaptic activity and activation of NR2A (GRIN2A)-containing NMDA receptor complexes activated Rap2a, which stimulated Jnk activity. Activation of Rap2a and Jnk led to the removal of Glur1 (GRIA1)- and Glur2 (GRIA2)-containing AMPA receptor complexes, and was essential for depolarization.