RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #15216 PROFILE

This project looks at how a protein called PTCH1 moves cholesterol around in cells. PTCH1 is important for stopping certain cancers by controlling another protein called SMO. If PTCH1 doesn't work right, cancer can grow. Understanding how PTCH1 moves cholesterol could help us find new cancer treatments.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

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.

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PTCH1

Patched 1 protein; tumor suppressor gene involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway.

PTCH1 is a gene that codes for a protein involved in regulating cell growth and development. It plays a crucial role in the hedgehog signaling pathway, which is essential for various processes like embryonic development and tissue repair. Mutations in PTCH1 can disrupt this pathway, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.

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SMO

Smoothened; a transmembrane protein that acts as a receptor for the hedgehog signaling pathway.

SMO is a key protein in the hedgehog signaling pathway. It receives signals from the secreted protein Sonic Hedgehog (SHH). When activated, SMO triggers a cascade of events inside the cell, leading to changes in gene expression and ultimately affecting cell growth, differentiation, and survival.

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SHH

Sonic Hedgehog; a secreted signaling protein that plays a crucial role in embryonic development and tissue repair.

SHH is a signaling molecule involved in various developmental processes. It binds to the PTCH1 protein, which normally inhibits SMO. When SHH binds to PTCH1, it releases the inhibition on SMO, leading to activation of the hedgehog signaling pathway.

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cholesterol

A waxy, fat-like substance that is an essential component of cell membranes.

Cholesterol is a vital lipid found in all animal cells. It is a crucial component of cell membranes, providing structural integrity and fluidity. Cholesterol also plays a role in hormone synthesis and vitamin D production.

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cancer

A group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and spread.

Cancer is a complex group of diseases caused by abnormal cell growth. These cells divide uncontrollably and can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body (metastasis). Cancer can affect almost any organ or tissue in the body.

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medulloblastoma

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

Medulloblastoma is a highly malignant brain tumor that commonly affects children. It originates in the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordination and balance. Medulloblastoma can spread quickly to other parts of the brain and spinal cord.

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basal cell carcinoma

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

Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent type of skin cancer. It develops from the basal cells, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis (outermost layer of skin). Basal cell carcinoma usually appears as a pearly or waxy bump and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.