The RAB3GAP1 gene encodes a protein, which has a specificity for the members of the RAB3 protein family, and catalyzes the conversion of the active RAB3-GTP protein to its inactive RAB3-GDP form. The RAB proteins are prime regulators of membrane transport in both the exocytic and endocytic pathways, and are believed to participate in neurodevelopmental processes such as proliferation, migration and differentiation before synapse formation, and nonsynaptic vesicular release of neurotransmitters. The main function of the RAB3GAP1 protein, therefore, is in the regulated exocytosis of neurotransmitters and hormones. The gene plays a very important role in normal eye and brain development.
Mutations in the RAB3GAP1 gene have been implicated in Warburg micro syndrome, characterized by neurodevelopmental and ocular defects. It is postulated that the underlying pathogenesis of Micro syndrome is a failure of exocytic release of ocular and neurodevelopmental trophic factors, due to the loss of function of the RAB3GAP1 gene.