RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #15205 PROFILE

This project studies how PTCH1, a protein that controls cell growth, moves cholesterol around. When PTCH1 doesn't work right, it can lead to cancer like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma. Learning about how PTCH1 moves cholesterol could help us develop new cancer treatments.

This project aims to elucidate the cholesterol transport mechanism in PTCH1, a transmembrane protein responsible for inhibiting SMO in the absence of SHH in the hedgehog signaling pathway by reducing access to ciliary membrane cholesterol.

Dysregulation of this pathway (such as the inability of PTCH1 to transport cholesterol and thereby inhibit SMO) has been linked to various cancers, including medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma.

Thus, understanding the mechanisms behind PTCH1 cholesterol transport will allow for therapeutic treatments to target these cancers.

PTCH1

Patched 1, a transmembrane protein that inhibits SMO.

PTCH1 is a crucial protein in the hedgehog signaling pathway. It acts as a brake on SMO, another protein involved in this pathway, by regulating cholesterol transport within cells. When the signaling pathway is disrupted, due to issues with PTCH1's function, it can lead to various cancers like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma.

SMO

Smoothened, a protein involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway.

SMO is another key player in the hedgehog signaling pathway. It's activated when PTCH1 allows it, leading to downstream effects that control cell growth and development. Dysregulation of SMO can also contribute to the development of cancers like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma.

SHH

Sonic Hedgehog

SHH is a signaling molecule that activates the hedgehog pathway. It plays a crucial role in embryonic development and tissue maintenance throughout life.

Cholesterol

A waxy, fat-like substance essential for cell membrane structure and function.

Cholesterol is a vital component of cell membranes. It helps maintain their fluidity and integrity. It also plays a role in hormone synthesis and other crucial cellular processes.

Transmembrane Protein

A protein spanning the cell membrane.

Transmembrane proteins are embedded within cell membranes. They often act as channels or transporters, facilitating the movement of molecules across the membrane.