RESEARCH: G-PROTEINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17261 PROFILE

G-proteins control important body functions like sight and smell by switching between active and inactive states. The project relates to how they release a molecule called GDP, which is the key step in activating them. Messing up 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

G-proteins are a family of proteins that act as molecular switches in signal transduction pathways. They bind to guanine nucleotides (GDP and GTP) and their conformation changes depending on the bound nucleotide, allowing them to activate or inhibit downstream signaling molecules.

Signaling Pathways

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

Signaling pathways are crucial for cellular communication and coordination. They involve a cascade of molecules interacting with each other, ultimately leading to a specific cellular response, such as growth, differentiation, or death.

GDP

Guanosine diphosphate

GDP is a nucleotide molecule that plays a role in cellular energy transfer and signaling. It serves as the inactive form of guanine nucleotides within G-proteins.

GTP

Guanosine triphosphate

GTP is a nucleotide molecule that provides energy for cellular processes and acts as the active form of guanine nucleotides within G-proteins.

Disease Conditions

Abnormal states of health characterized by specific symptoms and signs.

Disease conditions arise from disruptions in normal bodily functions. These disruptions can be caused by genetic factors, environmental exposures, or lifestyle choices, leading to a wide range of illnesses.