RESEARCH: G-PROTEINS
FOLDING PROJECT #14241 PROFILE

G-proteins are important for things like vision and muscle movement. They switch between 'on' and 'off' states depending on what molecule they have bound. The project relates to how G-proteins get rid of one molecule (GDP) so they can turn 'on'. This process is key, and if it goes wrong, it can cause diseases.

G-proteins play central role in various signalling pathways involved in vision, taste, oflaction, muscle contraction and neurotransmission.

G-proteins regulate these signalling pathways by switching between 'active' and 'inactive' states, dictated by the type nucleotide bound to their active site.

When bound to gaunosine dinucleotide (GDP), G-proteins adopt inactive state.

Dissociation of GDP and subsequent binding of gaunosine trinucleotide (GTP) activates G-proteins, which in turn activate downstream signalling pathways.

GDP dissociation is the rate limiting step in activation of G-proteins and misregulation of this process can often lead to disease conditions.

in this project, we are studying the mechanism of GDP dissociation process.

G-proteins

Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins.

G-proteins are a family of proteins that act as molecular switches in cells. They are involved in many important processes, including vision, taste, olfaction, muscle contraction, and neurotransmission. G-proteins bind to guanine nucleotides (GDP or GTP) to switch between active and inactive states. This switching regulates downstream signaling pathways.

Signalling Pathways

Series of molecular events that transmit signals within a cell or between cells.

Signalling pathways are complex chains of biochemical reactions that allow cells to communicate with each other and respond to their environment. They involve the transmission of signals from one molecule to another, ultimately leading to a specific cellular response.

GDP

Guanosine Diphosphate.

GDP is a nucleotide molecule that plays a crucial role in cellular processes. It serves as an energy source and acts as a substrate for various enzymes. In particular, GDP binds to G-proteins, keeping them in an inactive state.

GTP

Guanosine Triphosphate.

GTP is a nucleotide molecule that plays a vital role in cellular energy transfer and signaling. It serves as the energy currency for many cellular processes, including protein synthesis and muscle contraction. GTP also binds to G-proteins, activating them and initiating downstream signaling pathways.

Disease Conditions

Medical conditions that impair normal bodily functions.

Disease conditions are a broad range of illnesses and disorders that affect the human body. They can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental exposures, infections, and lifestyle choices. Disease conditions often lead to symptoms, impaired function, and potentially serious health complications.