RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #17706 PROFILE

The project relates to computer simulations of the serotonin transporter protein. This protein controls serotonin levels in the brain, which affect mood, behavior, and sleep. Researchers hope to understand how changes in this protein cause mental health problems like depression so they can develop better 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

Protein responsible for reuptake of serotonin in neurons.

The serotonin transporter is a protein found in nerve cells that helps control levels of serotonin, a chemical messenger involved in mood, sleep, and other functions. It works by removing excess serotonin from the space between nerve cells, allowing signals to be regulated.

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neurotransmission

The process of transmitting signals between nerve cells.

Neurotransmission is the way our brain communicates. It involves the sending of chemical messages (neurotransmitters) from one nerve cell to another across a tiny gap called a synapse. These messages allow us to think, feel, and move.

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serotonin

A neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, and appetite.

Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions. It's often referred to as the 'happy hormone' because it contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.

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antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders.

Antidepressants are a class of medications that help people manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They work by affecting the balance of certain chemicals in the brain.

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Parkinson's

A neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors and loss of movement.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement. It causes symptoms like tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance problems. These symptoms are caused by damage to nerve cells in the part of the brain responsible for controlling movement.

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mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the genetic code (DNA). They can be caused by errors during DNA replication or exposure to environmental factors like radiation. Mutations can have various effects, ranging from being harmless to causing diseases.

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psychatric disorders

Mental illnesses that affect mood, thinking, and behavior.

Psychiatric disorders are a range of mental health conditions that impact how people think, feel, and behave. They can include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others.