RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #15236 PROFILE

This project looks at how PTCH1 moves cholesterol around in cells. PTCH1 stops a signal called 'hedgehog' when there's no cholesterol, but problems with this can lead to cancer. Figuring out how PTCH1 works could help us 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 found on the surface of cells. It plays a crucial role in the hedgehog signaling pathway, which is important for cell growth and development. PTCH1 acts as a brake on this pathway by inhibiting another protein called SMO.

SMO

Smoothened, a transmembrane protein.

SMO is another protein involved in the hedgehog signaling pathway. When PTCH1 is inactive, SMO is activated, leading to increased cell growth and proliferation. This activation is often implicated in the development of cancers.

SHH

Sonic Hedgehog

SHH is a protein signaling molecule that plays a crucial role in embryonic development and tissue regeneration. It activates the hedgehog pathway, leading to downstream effects on cell growth, differentiation, and survival.

Hedgehog Pathway

A signaling pathway that regulates cell growth and differentiation.

The hedgehog pathway is a complex network of interactions between proteins that controls various cellular processes. It plays a vital role in embryonic development, tissue repair, and stem cell maintenance. Dysregulation of this pathway can contribute to the development of cancer.

Medulloblastoma

A malignant brain tumor that originates in the cerebellum.

Medulloblastoma is a type of childhood brain cancer that arises from the cerebellum. It is characterized by rapid cell growth and can spread to other parts of the brain and body.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

A common type of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a pearly or waxy bump on sun-exposed areas of the skin. Treatment often involves surgery or topical medications.