RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17420 PROFILE

This project studies myosins, proteins that power our bodies' movements. Researchers want to understand how drugs can fix problems with myosin that cause heart diseases like cardiomyopathy and heart failure.

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

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.

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myosins

Proteins that produce force in cells

Myosins are a family of proteins crucial for various cellular functions, primarily responsible for generating force. They power muscle contraction, intracellular transport, and other mechanical processes within cells. Defects in myosin function can lead to various diseases affecting the heart and other tissues.

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proteins

Large biomolecules essential for life

Proteins are complex molecules that perform a wide range of functions in living organisms. They act as enzymes, structural components, hormones, and antibodies, among other roles. Their diverse structures and properties allow them to carry out the complex processes necessary for life.

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hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

A disease causing the heart muscle to thicken

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic heart condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick. This thickening can make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and fainting.

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dilated cardiomyopathy

A disease causing the heart chambers to enlarge

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart condition where the heart's chambers become enlarged and weakened. This makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and feet.

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heart failure

A condition where the heart can't pump blood efficiently

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body, causing symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling.

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PDB

Protein Data Bank

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is a global repository for 3D structural data of biological macromolecules, primarily proteins and nucleic acids. Researchers use this information to understand protein function, design drugs, and develop new technologies.

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Molecule of the Month

A monthly feature highlighting a protein structure in the PDB

The 'Molecule of the Month' is a recurring feature on the Protein Data Bank (PDB) website. Each month, a specific protein structure with unique features or scientific significance is highlighted, providing researchers and the public with insights into its biological function and importance.