RESEARCH: G-PROTEINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17227 PROFILE

G-proteins control many important body functions like sight, smell, and muscle movement. They switch between active and inactive states based on molecules called GDP and GTP. This project investigates how G-proteins release GDP, a crucial step in activating them. Problems with this process can lead to 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 crucial for transmitting signals within cells. They act like molecular switches, turning on and off various cellular processes based on the binding of molecules called GDP or GTP. This switching mechanism is essential for many functions like vision, taste, muscle movement, and nerve communication. Disruptions in G-protein function can lead to diseases.

Signaling Pathways

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

Signaling pathways are the intricate communication networks within and between cells. They relay information from external stimuli to specific cellular responses, such as growth, differentiation, or death. These pathways involve a cascade of molecules interacting with each other, ultimately leading to changes in gene expression or protein activity.

GDP

Guanosine Diphosphate

GDP is a molecule crucial for cellular processes. It serves as an energy source and plays a vital role in protein synthesis and signaling pathways.

GTP

Guanosine Triphosphate

GTP is a molecule that plays a central role in cellular energy transfer and signal transduction. It powers various cellular processes and acts as an energy currency within cells.