Abstract
GTP-binding proteins are found in all organisms. They are important switches that cycle between an active and an inactive state, ensuring vectorial flow of information on the expense of guanosine triphosphate (GTP). In this review, we discuss current progress in the molecular characterization and functional analysis of plant genes encoding heterotrimeric and small GTPases. An up-to-date list including all cloned plant GTPase genes is given and a systematic classification is proposed.
Key words: GTPase, G protein superfamily, heterotrimeric G proteins, WD40 repeat protein, G protein-coupled receptors, small G proteins, signal transduction, vesicle transport, secretion, Arabidopsis thaliana, Nicotiana tabacum, Solanum esculentum