Ras proteins are a family of small GTPase enzymes that play a crucial role in transmitting signals within cells. They act as molecular switches, toggling between an active form bound to GTP and an inactive form bound to GDP. This switching mechanism is essential for regulating various cellular processes, including growth, differentiation, and survival. Mutations in Ras proteins are commonly associated with various cancers, as they can lead to uncontrolled cell division and tumor formation. The most studied members of this family include K-Ras, N-Ras, and H-Ras, each contributing to different signaling pathways that influence cell behavior.