RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #14961 PROFILE

This project looks at Class F Receptors and Patched proteins, which help control how cells grow. Too much or too little of these proteins can cause cancers like Basal Cell Carcinoma and Medulloblastoma. By using computer simulations, we hope to understand how these proteins work so we can learn more about 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

Group of receptors involved in cell signaling and differentiation.

Class F Receptors are a type of protein found on the surface of cells. They act as receivers for signals that tell cells how to grow and develop. These receptors play a crucial role in controlling cell division and specialization, making them important for normal tissue development.

Patched Membrane Protein

A protein found on the cell membrane that regulates signal transduction.

Patched is a protein embedded in the cell membrane. It acts as a 'brake' on cellular signaling pathways. When certain signals bind to Patched, it blocks further transmission of these signals, controlling cell growth and development.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

A type of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells.

Basal Cell Carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer. It develops from the basal cells, which are found in the deepest layer of the epidermis (outermost skin layer). This type of cancer usually appears as a pearly or waxy bump, and it rarely spreads to other parts of the body.

Medulloblastoma

A type of brain cancer that originates in the cerebellum.

Medulloblastoma is a fast-growing tumor that develops in the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination. It is most common in children, and treatment often involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.