RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17733 PROFILE

This project looks at how proteins called secondary active transporters use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes. These transporters are found everywhere in life and are important drug targets for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders. By studying them, we can learn more about how these proteins work, even if they look very different from each other.

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

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.

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Secondary Active Transporters

Proteins that use ions to transport molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are vital proteins found in all living organisms. They utilize the energy stored in an ion gradient to move various molecules across cell membranes. These transporters play a crucial role in cellular functions and are often targeted by drugs to treat diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

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Ion Gradient

The difference in concentration of ions across a cell membrane.

An ion gradient 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 the function of secondary active transporters.

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Cell Membrane

A thin layer that surrounds every cell and separates it from its environment.

The cell membrane is a vital structure that encloses every cell, acting as a barrier between the cell's internal environment and the external world. It plays a crucial role in regulating the passage of molecules into and out of the cell.

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Protein

A large biomolecule composed of amino acids.

Proteins are essential macromolecules found in all living organisms. They perform a wide range of functions, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, transporting molecules, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes.

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Drug Targets

Molecules or biological processes that are targeted by drugs.

Drug targets are specific molecules or pathways within the body that are involved in disease processes. Drugs are designed to interact with these targets and modulate their activity, ultimately aiming to treat or prevent diseases.

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Cancer

A group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division. These cells can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

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Diabetes

A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can damage various organs and tissues.

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Neurological Disorders

A broad category of diseases affecting the nervous system.

Neurological disorders encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These disorders can cause various symptoms, including seizures, paralysis, cognitive impairment, and sensory disturbances.