RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #12924 PROFILE

Proteins fold into specific shapes. Sometimes mutations mess up this folding, causing diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. This project looks at how changes in protein building blocks affect how well proteins hold their shape at different temperatures to predict if they're stable.

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.

This project is concerned with characterizing the effect of specific mutations on the hydrophobic packing of proteins at different temperatures to predict thermostability.

Protein

Large biomolecules essential for various biological functions.

Proteins are complex molecules crucial for life. They perform diverse tasks like building tissues, transporting molecules, and catalyzing reactions. Misfolding of proteins can disrupt these functions and lead to diseases.

Misfolding

Failure of a protein to achieve its correct three-dimensional structure.

Misfolding occurs when proteins can't fold into their proper shapes. This can disrupt their function and lead to diseases like Alzheimer's or cancer.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the genetic code. They can lead to changes in protein structure and function, sometimes causing disease.

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation.

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

Alzheimer's

A neurodegenerative disease that affects memory and cognitive function.

Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder that causes memory loss, thinking problems, and behavioral changes. It's the most common cause of dementia.