The D4-GDI protein is a negative regulator of the Ras-related Rho family of small molecule "molecular switch" GTPases. The Rho GTPases modify cell structure and architecture via rapid changes to the actin cytoskeleton and cell membrane. Many of these physiological processes are associated with apoptotic cell death, thus the in vivo removal of D4-GDI inhibitory block is critical for proper induction and progression of apoptosis in cells.
