RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #14953 PROFILE

This project looks at Class F Receptors and Patched proteins, which control how cells grow and change. Problems with these proteins can cause cancers like Basal Cell Carcinoma and Medulloblastoma. By using computer models, we hope to figure out how these proteins work, which could lead to new ways to treat these diseases.

Class F Receptors and Patched Membrane Protein Class F Receptors and Patched are human proteins that are involved in the control of cell differentiation.

Over-activation/inactivation of these proteins has links to Basal Cell Carcinoma and Medulloblastoma.

Through simulations we aim to understand the activation mechanisms of these proteins, giving us a way to probe into the pathogenesis of the disease.

Class F Receptors

A family of G protein-coupled receptors involved in cell signaling.

Class F Receptors are a group of proteins found on the surface of cells that play a crucial role in how cells communicate with each other. They receive signals from outside the cell and trigger responses inside the cell, influencing processes like growth and differentiation. These receptors have been linked to various diseases, including cancers like Basal Cell Carcinoma.

Patched

A protein that acts as a negative regulator of the Hedgehog signaling pathway.

Patched is a protein that helps control cell growth and development. It acts as a brake on the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which is important for processes like tissue repair and embryonic development. When Patched is malfunctioning, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, contributing to diseases like medulloblastoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer.

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most prevalent type of skin cancer. It starts in the basal cells, which are found in the deepest layer of the epidermis (the outer layer of skin). While it's usually slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause significant damage if left untreated.

Medulloblastoma

An aggressive type of brain tumor that originates in the cerebellum.

Medulloblastoma is a fast-growing brain tumor that develops in the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance. It is most common in children and can be very challenging to treat.