RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #17705 PROFILE

The project relates to computer simulations of the serotonin transporter protein. This protein controls serotonin levels in the brain, which affects mood, sleep, and other functions. The goal is to understand how changes in the protein caused by mutations can lead to mental health problems like depression and Parkinson's disease. This knowledge could help develop new treatments.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

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.

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serotonin transporter

A protein that removes serotonin from synapses.

The serotonin transporter is a crucial protein in the brain responsible for regulating serotonin levels. It works by removing serotonin from the spaces between nerve cells (synapses) after it has been used to transmit signals. This process helps control mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions.

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neurotransmission

The process of transmitting signals between nerve cells.

Neurotransmission is how our brain communicates. Nerve cells send signals to each other through chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. These chemicals cross a tiny gap (synapse) between the cells and trigger a response in the receiving cell.

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serotonin

A neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and other functions.

Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the brain that plays a vital role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other essential functions. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.

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antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders.

Antidepressants are a class of medications prescribed to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They work by affecting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine.

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Parkinson's

A neurodegenerative disease that affects movement.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes tremors, rigidity, slow movements, and balance problems. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain responsible for controlling movement gradually die.

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mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the genetic code (DNA) of an organism. These changes can be small or large and can affect a single gene or multiple genes. Mutations can occur spontaneously or be induced by environmental factors.

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psychatric disorders

Mental illnesses that affect thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

Psychiatric disorders encompass a wide range of mental health conditions affecting mood, thinking, perception, and behavior. Examples include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.