KRAS is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein involved in cell signaling pathways, which help control cell growth and division. Mutations in the KRAS gene can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation, contributing to the development of certain types of cancer, particularly pancreatic, colorectal, and lung cancers. The KRAS protein is part of a larger family of proteins known as small GTPases. It acts as a molecular switch, toggling between an active and inactive state to relay signals from outside the cell to the nucleus. Understanding KRAS mutations is crucial for developing targeted therapies in cancer treatment.