RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #17444 PROFILE

This project looks at myosins, proteins that power most of our body's movements, like muscle contractions and cell activities. Scientists want to understand how drugs could fix problems with myosins that cause heart conditions 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 muscle contraction and cellular movement.

Myosins are a family of motor proteins crucial for various biological functions. They generate force by converting chemical energy into mechanical work, enabling muscle contraction, intracellular transport, and cell division. Defects in myosin function can lead to diseases like cardiomyopathies and heart failure.

proteins

Large biomolecules essential for all living organisms.

Proteins are the workhorses of cells, performing a vast array of functions. They catalyze biochemical reactions, transport molecules, provide structural support, and participate in cell signaling. Their diverse structures and functions are essential for life.

cardiomyopathies

Diseases of the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies encompass a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle's ability to pump blood effectively. They can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. Common types include dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

heart failure

A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle weakens and can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs and ankles, and other symptoms. It is a serious condition that requires medical treatment.

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 PDB data to understand protein function, design drugs, and develop new therapies.