GTPase activity is important in the regulation of signal transduction because it

Question

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GTPase activity catalyzed by GTPase enzymes hydrolyzes GTP to GDP, which is an essential step for shutting down signal transduction pathways that are initiated by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). When a GPCR is activated by a ligand, it promotes the exchange of GTP for GDP on the bound G protein alpha subunit, leading to the activation of downstream effectors. The GTP-bound alpha subunit ultimately hydrolyzes GTP to GDP with the help of GTPase enzymes, causing the inactivation of downstream effectors and cessation of the signaling cascade. Therefore, GTPase activity plays a crucial role in terminating the response to extracellular signals.

GTPase Activity Is Important in the Regulation of Signal Transduction