RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17779 PROFILE

Secondary active transporters are proteins that use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes. They're found in all living things and help with transporting things like drugs. The project looks at how these transporters work differently, but share the same basic principle of using ions for power.

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.

Molecular basis

The fundamental principles governing the structure and function of molecules.

Molecular basis refers to the underlying principles that explain how molecules are structured and how they interact with each other. In this context, it likely pertains to understanding the structural components and interactions of secondary active transporters at a molecular level.

Secondary active transporters

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

Secondary active transporters are specialized proteins embedded within cell membranes. They utilize the energy stored in an electrochemical gradient of ions, typically sodium or protons, to drive the movement of other molecules against their concentration gradient. This process is essential for various cellular functions, including nutrient uptake, waste removal, and signal transduction.

Ion gradient

A difference in ion concentration across a membrane.

An ion gradient refers to an uneven distribution of ions, such as sodium or potassium, between two regions separated by a membrane. This concentration difference creates a potential energy that can be harnessed for cellular processes like transporting molecules or generating electrical signals.

Drug targets

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

Drug targets represent specific molecules or biological pathways involved in disease pathogenesis. By inhibiting or modulating these targets, drugs aim to alleviate symptoms, halt disease progression, or cure the condition.

Simulations

Computer-based models that mimic real-world processes.

Simulations involve using computer algorithms to recreate and analyze complex systems or processes. In this context, simulations are likely employed to model the behavior of secondary active transporters under various conditions.