RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #14489 PROFILE

This project looks at how myosins work. Myosins are proteins that help your body move, like when you exercise or even just breathe! Scientists want to understand how medicines can fix problems with myosins, which can cause 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.

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 muscle contraction and cellular movement.

Myosins are a type of protein found in all eukaryotic cells. They play a crucial role in various biological processes, including muscle contraction, cell division, and intracellular transport. Defects in myosin function can lead to a range of diseases, such as cardiomyopathies and muscular dystrophies.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for the structure and function of cells.

Proteins are complex molecules made up of chains of amino acids. They perform a vast array of functions in living organisms, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, transporting molecules, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle that affect its ability to pump blood.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of disorders that involve damage or dysfunction of the heart muscle. They can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. Common types include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

heart failure

A condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle weakens or becomes stiff, making it unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, fluid retention, and other complications.