RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #17759 PROFILE

This project uses computer simulations to study the serotonin transporter protein. Serotonin helps control mood, sleep, and other functions. Changes in this protein can lead to mental health problems like depression. By understanding how these changes affect the protein, we hope to find better treatments.

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.

serotonin transporter

Protein responsible for terminating neurotransmission of serotonin.

The serotonin transporter is a protein found in neurons that helps regulate the levels of serotonin in the brain. It works by removing serotonin from the synapse, the space between neurons, which allows communication to cease. This protein plays a crucial role in mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and other functions.

neurotransmitter

Chemical messenger that transmits signals across a synapse.

Neurotransmitters are chemicals released by neurons to communicate with other cells. They travel across a small gap called a synapse and bind to receptors on the receiving cell, triggering a response. Examples include serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine.

antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders.

Antidepressants are a class of drugs prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. They work by affecting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine.

Parkinson's

Progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement.

Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive brain disorder that primarily affects movement. It is characterized by tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), and postural instability. Symptoms typically worsen over time.

mutations

Permanent changes in DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the DNA sequence that can affect gene function. They can be caused by various factors, such as errors during DNA replication or exposure to radiation. Mutations can have a range of effects, from being harmless to causing disease.

psychatric disorders

Mental health conditions affecting mood, thinking, and behavior.

Psychiatric disorders are a group of mental illnesses that affect a person's emotional, cognitive, and behavioral well-being. They can range from mild to severe and may include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.