The RAB23 gene encodes a small GTPase of the Ras superfamily. Rab proteins are involved in regulating many cellular processes in the context of endocytosis, including autophagy and immune response to bacterial infections. Rab23 gets attached to nascent endocytic vesicles and it guides them to their proper cellular destination. This function implies a significant role for Rab23 in regulating many signaling pathways and a considerable influence of this protein on cell-cell communication. In fact, molecular investigations indicate that Rab23 particularly regulates a key developmental pathway; hedgehog signaling. The latter is highly important for many developmental processes, such as cellular proliferation and patterning during embryonic development. Importantly, Rab23 is thought to play a significant role in the development of the central nervous system through antagonizing sonic hedgehog signaling.