RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17782 PROFILE

Secondary active transporters use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes. This process is vital for life and is being studied to develop new drugs for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders. The project will help us understand how these transporters work across different types of proteins.

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 ions to transport molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are essential proteins found in all living organisms. They utilize the energy stored in an ion gradient to move various molecules across cell membranes. This process is crucial for numerous cellular functions and plays a significant role in drug development targeting 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 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.

simulations

Computer-based models used to study biological systems.

Simulations are powerful tools used in computational biology to recreate and analyze complex biological processes. By simulating the behavior of molecules and cells, researchers can gain insights into various phenomena, such as drug action or protein interactions.

proteins

Large, complex molecules essential for various biological functions.

Proteins are the workhorses of cells, carrying out a wide range of functions essential for life. They act as enzymes, structural components, signaling molecules, and transporters.