RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #17708 PROFILE

This project looks at how changes to the serotonin transporter protein affect brain function. Serotonin is important for mood, sleep, and other things. Understanding these changes could help develop better treatments for mental health disorders like depression.

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 reabsorbing serotonin in the brain.

The serotonin transporter is a crucial protein that helps regulate mood and other functions by removing serotonin from nerve synapses. Mutations or malfunctions in this protein can contribute to mental health disorders like depression and Parkinson's disease.

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Neurotransmission

The process of transmitting signals between neurons.

Neurotransmission is how our brain cells communicate with each other. Chemicals called neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and received by another, allowing for the transmission of information throughout the nervous system.

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Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.

Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the brain that plays a vital role in regulating mood, sleep patterns, appetite, and other functions. Imbalances in serotonin levels are linked to various mental health conditions.

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Antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression and other mental health disorders.

Antidepressants are a class of drugs designed to alleviate symptoms of depression and other mood disorders. They work by affecting the levels or activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

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Depression

A mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest.

Depression is a common mental illness that affects mood, thoughts, and behavior. Symptoms can include persistent sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.

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Parkinson's Disease

A progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement.

Parkinson's disease is a chronic brain disorder that causes tremors, stiffness, slow movements, and difficulty with balance. It is caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

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Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the DNA code. They can be inherited or occur spontaneously and can lead to variations in traits or diseases.

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Psychatric Disorders

Mental illnesses affecting mood, thinking, and behavior.

Psychiatric disorders encompass a wide range of mental health conditions that affect an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They can include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and schizophrenia.