RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17437 PROFILE

This project studies myosins, proteins that power movement in our bodies, from muscle contractions to cell functions. Scientists want to understand how drugs can fix problems with myosins that cause heart diseases like cardiomyopathies 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 responsible for force generation in the body.

Myosins are a class of proteins crucial for various cellular functions. They generate force for muscle contraction, intracellular transport, and cell division. Dysfunctional myosins can lead to diseases like cardiomyopathies and heart failure.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for all biological processes.

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

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of disorders that affect the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

heart failure

A condition where the heart can't pump blood effectively.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle weakens and cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs and other organs.

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.