RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #16928 PROFILE

This project looks at how different types of chemical links affect single, twisted protein sections called alpha helices. Scientists hope these modified proteins could become cancer drugs by blocking harmful interactions in tumor cells.

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

This project is aimed at understanding the effects of chiral chemical linkers on single stapled alpha helices.

Designed peptides such as these may eventually be developed into therapeutics that can disrupt interactions betwee axin and beta catenin in Wnt activated cancer tumors.

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chiral

Having a non-superimposable mirror image.

Chiral refers to molecules that exist in two forms that are mirror images of each other but cannot be superimposed. This property is crucial in pharmaceutical development because different chiral forms of a drug can have vastly different effects on the body.

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stapled alpha helices

A type of protein structure stabilized by a covalent bond between amino acid residues.

Stapled alpha helices are modified proteins where two specific amino acids are linked together. This creates a rigid and stable shape, making them useful for drug development as they can resist degradation and target specific proteins.

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peptides

Short chains of amino acids.

Peptides are small chains of amino acids that play various roles in biological systems. They can act as hormones, enzymes, or signaling molecules. In drug development, peptides offer unique advantages due to their high specificity and low toxicity.

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therapeutics

Substances used to treat or prevent diseases.

Therapeutics encompass any substance or treatment aimed at diagnosing, treating, or preventing diseases. This broad category includes medications, vaccines, and other therapies designed to improve health outcomes.

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axin

A protein that regulates the Wnt signaling pathway.

Axin is a crucial protein involved in the Wnt signaling pathway, which plays a vital role in cell growth and development. Disruptions in this pathway are often implicated in cancer.

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beta catenin

A protein that acts as a transcriptional coactivator in the Wnt signaling pathway.

Beta-catenin is a key protein involved in cell adhesion and signal transduction. In the Wnt pathway, it acts as a messenger, transmitting signals from the cell surface to the nucleus, influencing gene expression.

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Wnt

A family of signaling proteins.

Wnt proteins are a large family involved in various cellular processes, including development, cell proliferation, and differentiation. They bind to receptors on the cell surface, triggering signaling cascades that regulate gene expression.

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cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth and spread.

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth and division. It can arise from various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices.