RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #13824 PROFILE

This project looks at different types of myosin proteins found in the body. Myosins are important for muscle contractions and cell movement. The project focuses on how fast and strong these different myosins are, which could help us understand diseases caused by faulty myosins, like heart conditions.

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.

myosins

Proteins responsible for force generation in the body.

Myosins are a type of protein crucial for movement within cells and throughout the human body. They power muscle contractions, help transport materials within cells, and are essential for various bodily functions. Studying myosin variations and defects can shed light on diseases like Usher syndrome and cardiomyopathies.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for various cellular functions.

Proteins are complex molecules made up of amino acids that perform a wide range of tasks within living organisms. They are involved in building and repairing tissues, transporting molecules, catalyzing chemical reactions, and regulating bodily processes. Understanding protein structure and function is fundamental to comprehending biological systems.

muscles

Tissues responsible for voluntary and involuntary movement.

Muscles are tissues that contract to produce force and enable movement. There are three types of muscles: skeletal (attached to bones), smooth (found in internal organs), and cardiac (in the heart). Muscle contraction is essential for various bodily functions, including locomotion, posture maintenance, and organ function.

Usher syndrome

A genetic disorder characterized by hearing loss and vision impairment.

Usher syndrome is a group of inherited disorders that primarily affect the senses of hearing and sight. Individuals with Usher syndrome often experience varying degrees of hearing loss from birth or early childhood, along with progressive vision problems, usually retinitis pigmentosa. It's caused by mutations in specific genes responsible for sensory development and function.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of disorders that affect the structure and function of the heart muscle. They can lead to various symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and irregular heartbeat. There are different types of cardiomyopathies, each with unique characteristics and causes.