RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #15233 PROFILE

This project looks at how PTCH1 moves cholesterol around to control cell growth. When PTCH1 doesn't work right, it can cause cancer like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma. Figuring out how PTCH1 works could lead to 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.

---

PTCH1

Patched 1, a transmembrane protein.

PTCH1 is a protein found on the cell surface that plays a crucial role in the hedgehog signaling pathway. This pathway is involved in regulating cell growth and differentiation. When there's no signal from SHH, PTCH1 inhibits SMO, another protein in the pathway. Dysfunction of PTCH1 can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.

---

SMO

Smoothened, a protein in the hedgehog pathway.

SMO is another protein involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway. When PTCH1 inhibits SMO, the pathway is turned off. But when SHH signals bind to PTCH1, it releases its inhibition on SMO, allowing the pathway to proceed and promote cell growth.

---

SHH

Sonic Hedgehog.

SHH is a signaling molecule that plays a vital role in embryonic development and tissue repair. It binds to PTCH1, activating the hedgehog pathway and promoting cell growth.

---

Hedgehog Signaling Pathway

A pathway that regulates cell growth and differentiation.

The hedgehog signaling pathway is a complex series of events that begins when SHH binds to PTCH1. This interaction leads to the activation of SMO and ultimately influences gene expression, controlling cell proliferation and development.

---

Transmembrane Protein

A protein embedded in the cell membrane.

Transmembrane proteins span the entire cell membrane. They play various roles, including transporting molecules across the membrane, receiving signals from outside the cell, and acting as structural components.

---

Cholesterol Transport

The movement of cholesterol within and between cells.

Cholesterol transport is essential for maintaining cell membrane integrity and regulating various cellular processes. It involves specialized proteins that bind to cholesterol and facilitate its movement through the cell.

---

Medulloblastoma

A type of brain tumor that arises from the cerebellum.

Medulloblastoma is a malignant brain tumor that commonly affects children. It originates in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance.

---

Basal Cell Carcinoma

A common type of skin cancer.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent form of skin cancer. It arises from the basal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin.