RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17433 PROFILE

This project studies myosins, proteins that power movement in our bodies, from muscle contractions to cell activity. Researchers want to understand how drugs could fix problems with myosin linked to heart conditions like cardiomyopathies and heart failure. Myosin is so important it was even featured as the Molecule of the Month by the Protein Data Bank!

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 responsible for muscle contraction and cellular movement.

Myosins are a family of motor proteins crucial for various biological processes. They generate force and enable the movement of cells, organelles, and materials within cells. Myosins play a vital role in muscle contraction, cell division, and intracellular transport. Dysfunctional myosins can contribute to diseases like cardiomyopathies and heart failure.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for all life processes.

Proteins are complex molecules made up of amino acids. They perform a wide range of functions in living organisms, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, transporting molecules, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes. Proteins are crucial for the structure, function, and regulation of all cells.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs or ankles. There are different types of cardiomyopathies, including dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

heart failure

A serious condition where the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle weakens and can't pump blood effectively. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, and other symptoms. There are different types of heart failure, and treatment options depend on the underlying cause.

PDB

Protein Data Bank

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is a global repository of 3D structural information about biological macromolecules, primarily proteins and nucleic acids. It provides a vast resource for researchers studying protein structure, function, and interactions.