Small GTPases on Membranes

Small GTPases function as fundamental molecular switches that integrate environmental cues to coordinate cellular growth, metabolism, and adaptation. Our lab investigates the spatiotemporal regulation of these switches, focusing on how the membrane surface directly influences the interaction between signaling molecules. Our initial focus will be on the RAS GTPases, which are central to human health, with mutations implicated in nearly 20% of all human cancers. We aim to unravel the molecular and structural basis of RAS signaling on the plasma membrane. In addition, we combine AI and structural biology to guide drug discovery toward membrane-specific druggability. While RAS is a primary focus, our lab also explores the broader field of small GTPases to identify universal principles of membrane-directed signaling.