With regards to nuclear import, what would happen if there was a mutation in the Ran gene where its protein binds GDP irreversibly?
In nuclear import cycle, the destiny of a cargo protein depends on the conformation of Ran protein. By conformation, we mean whether Ran is bound to GTP or GDP. When Ran is bound to GTP, it can form a complex with importins or exportins and deliver the cargo to their destination. However, when the GTP is replaced by GDP, Ran gets into a turned off state.
Hence, a mutation that makes Ran bind to GDP irreversibly, would halt the import of cargo proteins in the nucleus.
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