RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17746 PROFILE

This project looks at how proteins move stuff across cell membranes using ions like tiny power sources. These proteins are important for many things and some can even be used to treat diseases! By studying them, we can learn more about how cells work.

Projects 17745-17750 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 diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

The simulations in this project will allow us to understand a universal role of ion-coupling across different families of proteins.

Transporters

Proteins that move molecules across cell membranes.

Transporters are essential proteins found in all living organisms. They help move different substances, like nutrients and waste products, across cell membranes. This is crucial for many biological processes, including absorbing nutrients from food and getting rid of cellular waste.

Secondary Active Transporters

Proteins that use an ion gradient to transport molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are a type of protein that rely on the movement of ions (charged particles) to power the transport of other molecules across cell membranes. This process is called co-transport and is essential for many cellular functions, such as nutrient uptake and waste removal.

Ion Gradient

A difference in ion concentration across a cell membrane.

An ion gradient is a difference in the concentration of charged particles (ions) between two areas. This concentration difference creates a force that can drive the movement of ions across a membrane. In cells, ion gradients are crucial for many processes, including nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction.

Drug Targets

Molecules that are targeted by drugs to treat diseases.

Drug targets are specific molecules in the body that are involved in disease processes. By targeting these molecules with drugs, scientists aim to block or modify their activity and alleviate symptoms.

Simulations

Computer models used to study biological systems.

Simulations are computer programs that mimic real-world processes. In bioinformatics, simulations are used to study complex biological systems, such as protein interactions and drug effects, without the need for expensive and time-consuming experiments.