RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #13822 PROFILE

This project looks at different types of myosin, the proteins that power our muscles and cells. We're studying how fast and strong they are, especially because problems with myosin can cause diseases like heart problems and Usher syndrome.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

This project simulates several myosins found in the human body.

Myosins are the proteins responsible for most of the force generated by the body, from the contraction of muscles to the movement of materials around the cell.

Although superficially similar, myosins actually differ substantially in their properties and distribution in the body.

This project is studying those differences, especially the differences in speed and power.

We are especially interested in how this might help us understand diseases that result from defects in myosin, including Usher syndrome and, especially, hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies.

Myosin was featured as the PDB Molecule of the Month in June 2001.

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Myosins

Proteins responsible for muscle contraction and cellular movement.

Myosins are a group of proteins essential for various functions in the human body. They generate force for muscle contractions, allowing us to move, and they also play a crucial role in transporting materials within cells. Understanding myosin function is vital for comprehending how muscles work, cell movement occurs, and several diseases develop.

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Proteins

Large biomolecules essential for all life processes.

Proteins are complex molecules found in all living organisms. They perform a wide range of functions, including building and repairing tissues, catalyzing chemical reactions, transporting molecules, and defending against disease. Their diverse roles make them fundamental to life.

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Usher Syndrome

A rare genetic disorder affecting hearing and vision.

Usher syndrome is a hereditary condition that causes both hearing loss and vision impairment. It affects individuals at birth or during childhood, progressively worsening over time. There are different types of Usher syndrome, each with varying degrees of severity.

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Cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle's ability to pump blood effectively. They can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, infections, and lifestyle choices. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.

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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

A type of cardiomyopathy where the heart muscle becomes thickened.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition characterized by an abnormally thick heart muscle. This thickening can obstruct blood flow from the heart, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. It often has a genetic basis.

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Dilated Cardiomyopathy

A type of cardiomyopathy where the heart chambers become enlarged and weakened.

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) occurs when the heart's chambers become enlarged and unable to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, fluid retention, and heart failure. Causes include infections, genetic factors, and alcohol abuse.