RESEARCH: G-PROTEINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17225 PROFILE

G-proteins control many body functions like sight, smell, and muscle movement by switching between active and inactive states. This switch depends on a molecule called GDP. The project relates to understanding how G-proteins release GDP, which is key for them to work properly. Problems with this process can cause diseases.

G-proteins play central role in various signalling pathways involved in vision, taste, oflaction, muscle contraction and neurotransmission.

G-proteins regulate these signalling pathways by switching between 'active' and 'inactive' states, dictated by the type nucleotide bound to their active site.

When bound to gaunosine dinucleotide (GDP), G-proteins adopt inactive state.

Dissociation of GDP and subsequent binding of gaunosine trinucleotide (GTP) activates G-proteins, which in turn activate downstream signalling pathways.

GDP dissociation is the rate limiting step in activation of G-proteins and misregulation of this process can often lead to disease conditions.

in this project, we are studying the mechanism of GDP dissociation process.

G-proteins

Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins involved in signal transduction.

G-proteins are a family of proteins crucial for transmitting signals within cells. They act like molecular switches, turning on and off different cellular processes by binding to molecules called guanine nucleotides (GDP and GTP). This switching action is vital for functions like vision, smell, taste, muscle movement, and nerve signaling. Errors in G-protein function can contribute to various diseases.

Signaling Pathways

Series of molecular events that transmit signals within or between cells.

Signaling pathways are intricate networks of molecules that allow cells to communicate with each other and respond to their environment. These pathways involve a cascade of chemical reactions, often starting with a signal received at the cell surface and ultimately leading to changes in gene expression or cellular behavior.

GDP

Guanosine Diphosphate

GDP is a molecule that acts as an energy carrier and plays a role in various cellular processes. G-proteins bind to GDP when they are inactive.

GTP

Guanosine Triphosphate

GTP is a molecule that provides energy for various cellular processes. When bound to G-proteins, GTP activates them.