RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #12913 PROFILE

Proteins are made up of chains that fold into specific shapes. Sometimes, changes in the protein's code can mess up this folding, causing diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. This project looks at how different changes affect how proteins fold to help us understand and predict these problems.

Protein misfolding occurs when a peptide cannot fold into its native structure.

Mutations in the protein sequence may cause alterations of the native folded conformation, leading to diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

Understanding protein misfolding as a function of mutations is currently one of the biggest challenges in the biological sciences.

We aim to systematically study folding rates of diverse mutated proteins to better understand and predict folding dynamics.

Protein

Large biomolecules essential for various biological functions.

Proteins are complex molecules that perform many crucial tasks in living organisms. They act as enzymes, antibodies, structural components, and more. Understanding protein structure and function is fundamental to comprehending life processes.

Misfolding

Failure of a protein to adopt its correct three-dimensional shape.

Protein misfolding occurs when a protein cannot fold into its proper shape. This can lead to dysfunctional proteins that may aggregate and cause diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Mutation

A permanent alteration in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are changes in the genetic code (DNA). They can arise spontaneously or due to environmental factors. Mutations can have various effects, ranging from being harmless to causing disease.

Conformation

The three-dimensional shape of a molecule.

Conformation refers to the specific arrangement of atoms within a molecule. This shape is crucial for a molecule's function. Changes in conformation can alter its activity.

Cancer

Uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled division and spread of abnormal cells. It can affect various organs and tissues in the body.

Alzheimer's

A progressive neurodegenerative disease.

Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that progressively destroys memory and cognitive function. It is the most common cause of dementia.