RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #15211 PROFILE

This project looks at how a protein called PTCH1 moves cholesterol around in cells. PTCH1 helps control cell growth, and if it doesn't work right, it can lead to cancer. By understanding how PTCH1 works, scientists hope to find new ways to treat cancers like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma.

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.

PTCH1 is a protein that acts as a receptor in the Hedgehog signaling pathway. It normally inhibits another protein called SMO when there is no Hedgehog signal. This helps regulate cell growth and development. When PTCH1 doesn't work properly, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, which is associated with certain cancers.

SMO

Smoothened

SMO is a protein that plays a crucial role in the Hedgehog signaling pathway. When Hedgehog signals are present, SMO becomes activated and triggers a cascade of events that lead to cell growth and differentiation. Dysregulation of SMO can contribute to various cancers.

SHH

Sonic Hedgehog

SHH is a signaling molecule that plays a vital role in embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. It binds to the PTCH1 receptor, initiating the Hedgehog signaling pathway and regulating cell growth, differentiation, and survival.

Cholesterol Transport

The movement of cholesterol molecules within and between cells.

Cholesterol transport is essential for maintaining cellular membrane integrity and function. Cells regulate the amount of cholesterol in their membranes through various mechanisms, including uptake, synthesis, and export.

Medulloblastoma

A type of malignant brain tumor that arises in the cerebellum.

Medulloblastoma is an aggressive childhood brain tumor that originates in the cerebellum. It is characterized by rapid growth and can spread to other parts of the brain and body.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

A type of skin cancer that arises from the basal cells.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually develops as a pearly or waxy bump on sun-exposed areas of the skin. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent spread.