RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17430 PROFILE

This project studies myosin proteins, which power muscle contractions and cell movements. Scientists want to understand how drugs could fix problems with myosin that cause heart diseases like cardiomyopathy and heart failure.

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.

myosins

Proteins that generate force in the body.

Myosins are a class of motor proteins essential for various cellular functions. They convert chemical energy into mechanical work, enabling muscle contraction, cell movement, and intracellular transport.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for all biological processes.

Proteins are complex molecules made up of chains of amino acids. They perform a wide range of functions in living organisms, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, transporting molecules, and providing structural support.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of conditions that affect the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling.

heart failure

A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle becomes weakened or damaged, making it unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can lead to a buildup of fluid in the lungs and other parts of the body.

PDB

Protein Data Bank

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is a global repository of 3D structural data for biological macromolecules, primarily proteins and nucleic acids.