RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17732 PROFILE

This project studies how proteins use ion power to move molecules across cell membranes. These proteins are found everywhere and play a role in treating diseases like cancer and diabetes. Simulations will help us understand how these proteins work, no matter their shape or size.

Projects 17711-17724 Molecular basis of secondary active transporters. Secondary active membrane transporters are proteins that utilize ions to transport an assortment of molecules across cell membranes.

These proteins are found in all domains in life and surprisingly, despite vastly different structures, operate under the same mechanism by using an ion gradient to assist in small molecule transport.

Furthermore, many of these secondary active transporters are drug targets to treat disease like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

These simulations will allow us to understand a universal role of ion-coupling across different families of proteins.

Secondary active transporters

Proteins that use ions to transport molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are essential proteins found in all living organisms. They work by using the energy from an ion gradient to move other molecules across cell membranes. This process is crucial for many cellular functions, including nutrient uptake, waste removal, and signal transduction. These transporters are also important drug targets for treating various diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

Ion gradient

A difference in concentration of ions across a cell membrane.

An ion gradient is a crucial concept in cellular physiology. It refers to the unequal distribution of charged particles (ions) across a cell membrane. This difference in concentration creates an electrochemical potential that drives various cellular processes, including nutrient uptake, waste removal, and nerve impulse transmission.

Drug targets

Molecules or cellular pathways that are targeted by drugs to achieve therapeutic effects.

In drug development, drug targets are specific molecules or biological processes that are altered by medications to treat diseases. By understanding the mechanisms of disease, researchers can identify potential drug targets and design drugs that interact with these targets to produce the desired therapeutic effect.

Cancer

A group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.

Cancer is a complex group of diseases caused by abnormal cell growth and spread. It occurs when cells lose their normal regulatory mechanisms and begin to divide uncontrollably, invading surrounding tissues and potentially spreading to other parts of the body.

Diabetes

A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). There are different types of diabetes, but they all involve problems with insulin production or action. Insulin is a hormone that helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream. Without enough insulin or when the body doesn't respond to insulin properly, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to various health complications.

Neurological disorders

Conditions that affect the nervous system.

Neurological disorders encompass a wide range of diseases and conditions that impact the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. These disorders can affect various functions, including movement, sensation, cognition, and emotions. Some common neurological disorders include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.