RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17412 PROFILE

This project studies different types of myosins found in the human body. Myosins are proteins that create force for movement, like muscles contracting. Scientists want to learn how medicines can fix problems with myosin that cause heart conditions.

This project simulates several myosins found in the human body.

Myosins are the proteins responsible for most of the force generated by the body, from the contraction of muscles to the movement of materials around the cell.

We are interested in understanding the mechanistic basis of drugs that might be used to treat defects in myosin, including hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies as well as heart failure.

Myosin was featured as the PDB Molecule of the Month in June 2001.

myosin

A motor protein involved in muscle contraction and intracellular transport.

Myosins are a family of proteins that act as molecular motors. They convert chemical energy from ATP into mechanical work, allowing for movement within cells and tissues. Myosins play crucial roles in muscle contraction, cell division, and the transport of organelles and other cellular components.

proteins

Large biomolecules composed of chains of amino acids.

Proteins are essential macromolecules that perform a vast array of functions in living organisms. They serve as structural components, enzymes that catalyze biochemical reactions, hormones that regulate physiological processes, and antibodies that protect against pathogens.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle that affect its ability to pump blood effectively.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of conditions characterized by abnormalities in the structure and function of the heart muscle. They can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and irregular heartbeat. There are several types of cardiomyopathies, including dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

heart failure

A chronic condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs.

Heart failure is a serious medical condition that occurs when the heart muscle weakens and becomes unable to pump blood adequately. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, legs, and other parts of the body. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, and rapid or irregular heartbeat.