RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #17704 PROFILE

This project looks at how changes to a protein called the serotonin transporter affect brain function. Serotonin is important for mood, sleep, and other things, and problems with this transporter are linked to mental health issues like depression. By studying these changes, scientists hope to find better ways to treat these disorders.

The 17000-17710 project series contains simulations of the serotonin transporter, the protein responsible for terminating neurotransmission in neurons.

The neurotransmitter serotonin regulates various functions in the body such as mood, behavior, appettite, and sleep, and is a major drug targets for antidepressants.

Malfunctions in the serotonin transporter have been assoicated with mental disorders including depression and Parkinson's.

Our goal in performing these simulations is to understand how mutations affect the structure and dynamics of the serotonin transporter and provide insights to treat psychatric disorders assoicated with these mutations.

serotonin transporter

A protein that moves serotonin across neuronal membranes.

The serotonin transporter is a crucial protein responsible for regulating the levels of serotonin in the brain. It transports serotonin from the synapse back into the neuron, effectively stopping its signaling. This process is essential for mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and other functions.

neurotransmitter

A chemical messenger that transmits signals between neurons.

Neurotransmitters are the brain's chemical messengers. They allow communication between nerve cells (neurons), transmitting signals across tiny gaps called synapses. Examples include serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine.

mutation

A permanent change in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the genetic code (DNA). They can arise spontaneously or be induced by environmental factors. While some mutations are harmless, others can lead to diseases or changes in an organism's traits.

psychatric disorders

Mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior.

Psychiatric disorders are a broad category of mental illnesses that encompass various conditions affecting emotional well-being, thought processes, and behavior. Examples include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders.

Antidepressants are a class of medications primarily used to alleviate symptoms of depression. They work by affecting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine.