Ras mutations refer to genetic alterations in the Ras family of genes, which are crucial for regulating cell growth and differentiation. These genes encode small GTPases that act as molecular switches, cycling between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state. The most well-known members of the Ras family include KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS. Mutations in these genes can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation, a hallmark of cancer.
