Interview with a protein

The Sos1 protein participates in several eukaryotic cell signaling pathways, including insulin, FGF, and EGF signaling. These pathways lead to cell growth and survival, cytoskeletal organization, or changes in transcription. Mice lacking Sos1 die as embryos. A serious human genetic disorder called Noonan syndrome has recently been linked to mutations in Sos1.My lab mates and I here at the University of California, Berkeley, study how proper Sos1 function depends on the different domains of Sos1. In a very rare journalistic opportunity, I was able to interview a few of the Sos1 domains. I wanted to learn more about their jobs. Kuchment: Cdc25, could I ask you a few questions about your work?Cdc25: Sure, but make it quick. Kuchment: So what do you do in Sos1?Cdc25: I catalyze the exchange of GDP for GTP in molecules of Ras. That way, very important signals can continue to be...