Rab7, also known as Ras-related protein Rab-7, is a small GTPase belonging to the Rab family of proteins. Rab7 specifically plays a pivotal role in the trafficking processes associated with late endosomes and lysosomes. It is primarily localized to the membranes of late endosomes and lysosomes, where it exerts essential functions in the maturation and functionality of these organelles. By interacting with specific effector molecules and regulatory factors, Rab7 orchestrates the fusion of late endosomes with lysosomes, as well as the transport of cargo from late endosomes to lysosomes. This is achieved through the recruitment and activation of effector proteins such as RILP (Rab7-interacting lysosomal protein) and ORP1L (oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 1L), which facilitate the fusion process. Furthermore, Rab7 is intimately involved in the maturation and degradation of autophagosomes. Autophagy is a cellular degradation pathway that involves the formation of double-membraned autophagosomes to encapsulate and degrade damaged organelles or long-lived proteins. Rab7 plays a crucial role in the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes, ensuring the efficient degradation of the autophagosome's contents.
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