<prompt> Answer this question truthfullyWhat are GTPase activating proteins GAPs, and how do they affect the activation of G proteins?  <response>: <reason> GTPase activating proteins GAPs are proteins that play a key role in the regulation of G protein signaling by facilitating the hydrolysis of GTP guanosine triphosphate to GDP guanosine diphosphate. This hydrolysis process, which is catalyzed by the intrinsic GTPase activity of G proteins, leads to the deactivation of the G protein and the termination of downstream signaling pathways. By increasing the rate of GTP hydrolysis, GAPs therefore decrease the rate of G protein activation and help to ensure that signaling pathways are tightly regulated and properly controlled. Like GRFs, GAPs are an important target for drugs and other compounds that modulate G protein signaling. 