RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #15235 PROFILE

This project looks at how PTCH1 moves cholesterol around in cells. This protein is important for stopping cancer growth by controlling the hedgehog signaling pathway. If PTCH1 doesn't work right, it can lead to cancers like medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma. Learning more about PTCH1 could help us develop new treatments for these diseases.

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. A transmembrane protein involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway.

PTCH1 is a protein found on the surface of cells. It plays a crucial role in regulating the hedgehog signaling pathway, which is important for cell growth and development. When hedgehog signaling is disrupted, it can lead to cancer.

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SMO

Smoothened

SMO is a protein that acts as a receptor for the hedgehog signaling pathway. When activated by hedgehog signals, SMO triggers a cascade of events that promote cell growth and proliferation.

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SHH

Sonic Hedgehog

SHH is a protein that acts as a signaling molecule in the hedgehog pathway. It plays a vital role in embryonic development and tissue repair.

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Cholesterol

A type of fat found in the body and in some foods. It is essential for cell function.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is crucial for building healthy cells. The body produces cholesterol naturally, but we also consume it through our diet. Cholesterol plays a role in hormone production and vitamin D synthesis.

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Transmembrane protein

A type of protein that spans the entire cell membrane.

Transmembrane proteins are embedded within the cell membrane and play essential roles in transporting molecules across the cell barrier, receiving signals from the environment, and maintaining cell structure.

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Hedgehog signaling pathway

A signaling pathway involved in embryonic development and tissue repair.

The hedgehog pathway is a crucial signaling network that regulates cell growth, differentiation, and survival. It plays a vital role in embryonic development, organogenesis, and tissue regeneration.

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Cancer

A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and spread.

Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

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Medulloblastoma

A type of brain tumor that originates in the cerebellum.

Medulloblastoma is a malignant brain tumor that typically arises in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. It often affects children.

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Basal cell carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer.

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing skin cancer that originates in the basal cells of the epidermis. It often appears as a pearly or waxy bump and is typically treated with surgery.