RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17762 PROFILE

This project looks at how special proteins use energy from ions to move other molecules across cell membranes. These proteins are found everywhere and help treat diseases like cancer and diabetes. Simulations will help us understand how these proteins work across different types of cells.

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.

Secondary active transporters

Proteins that use ion gradients to transport molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are essential proteins found in all living organisms. They use the energy stored in an ion gradient to move other molecules across cell membranes. This process is crucial for various cellular functions, including nutrient uptake, waste removal, and signal transduction. Because of their importance in diverse biological processes, secondary active transporters are often targeted by drugs to treat diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

Ion gradient

A difference in ion concentration across a cell membrane.

An ion gradient refers to the unequal distribution of ions (charged atoms) across a cell membrane. This difference in concentration creates an electrochemical potential that can be used to drive various cellular processes, including the movement of molecules across the membrane via secondary active transporters.

Drug targets

Molecules or biological processes that are targeted by drugs to treat diseases.

Drug targets are specific molecules or pathways within the body that are involved in disease processes. By inhibiting or activating these targets, drugs can effectively treat various conditions. Secondary active transporters often serve as drug targets due to their crucial roles in cellular functions and their involvement in many diseases.

Cancer

A group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.

Cancer is a broad term encompassing various diseases characterized by the abnormal and uncontrollable proliferation of cells. This uncontrolled growth can lead to the formation of tumors and the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body (metastasis).

Diabetes

A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). In type 1 diabetes, the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can damage various organs over time.

Neurological disorders

Conditions affecting the nervous system.

Neurological disorders encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. These can include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and various others.