RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #13828 PROFILE

This project looks at different types of myosins in our bodies. Myosins are proteins that make our muscles work and move things around inside our cells. The project compares how fast and strong each type is, which can help us understand diseases caused by problems with myosin, 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.

Myosin

A motor protein responsible for muscle contraction and intracellular movement.

Myosins are a family of proteins crucial for various bodily functions. They power muscle contractions, enabling movement, and facilitate transport within cells. Defects in myosin can lead to diseases like Usher syndrome (hearing and vision loss) and cardiomyopathies (heart muscle disorders). Understanding myosin's structure and function is vital for developing treatments for these conditions.

Usher syndrome

A rare genetic disorder characterized by hearing loss and vision impairment.

Usher syndrome is a genetic condition affecting both hearing and sight. It's caused by mutations in specific genes and presents with varying degrees of severity. Individuals with Usher syndrome may experience progressive hearing loss from birth, retinitis pigmentosa (deterioration of the retina), and balance issues.

Cardiomyopathies

A group of diseases affecting the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies encompass a range of disorders that weaken or stiffen the heart muscle, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. Types include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickened heart walls), dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged and weakened chambers), and restrictive cardiomyopathy (stiff heart muscle). These conditions can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and heart failure.

PDB

Protein Data Bank

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is a global repository for 3D structural data of biological macromolecules, primarily proteins and nucleic acids. It serves as a crucial resource for researchers studying protein function, interactions, and diseases.

Molecule of the Month

A monthly feature highlighting a significant protein structure deposited in the PDB.

The 'Molecule of the Month' is a regular feature by the Protein Data Bank (PDB), showcasing a unique and important protein structure each month. This highlights advancements in structural biology research and educates the scientific community about diverse protein functions.