RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #14480 PROFILE

This project studies myosin proteins, which power muscle contractions and cell movement. Scientists want to understand how drugs can fix problems with myosin that cause heart diseases like cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Myosin was even featured as a special protein of the month!

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.

We are interested in understanding the mechanistic basis of drugs that might be used to treat defects in myosin, including hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies as well as heart failure.

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

myosins

Proteins responsible for force generation in cells and muscles.

Myosins are a class of proteins crucial for various cellular functions. They generate the force needed for muscle contraction, cell movement, and transport of materials within cells. Defects in myosin can lead to diseases like cardiomyopathies and heart failure.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for various biological processes.

Proteins are the building blocks of life. They perform a wide range of functions in organisms, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, transporting molecules, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes.

contraction

The shortening of a muscle fiber.

Muscle contraction is the process by which muscles generate force and shorten. This allows for movement, posture maintenance, and other bodily functions. It involves complex interactions between proteins like actin and myosin.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. This can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.

heart failure

A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle weakens and can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs and other organs, causing symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue.