RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17784 PROFILE

Secondary active transporters are proteins that use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes. They're found in all living things and are important drug targets for diseases like cancer. This project uses simulations to 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.

Molecular basis

The fundamental principles governing how molecules interact.

Molecular basis refers to the underlying mechanisms and interactions between molecules that drive biological processes. In this context, it explores how molecules like proteins and nucleic acids contribute to the function of secondary active transporters.

Secondary active transporters

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

Secondary active transporters are vital proteins found in all living organisms. They utilize the energy stored in an ion gradient to move various molecules across cell membranes against their concentration gradient. This process is essential for nutrient uptake, waste removal, and signaling within cells.

Membrane transporters

Proteins embedded in cell membranes that facilitate the movement of substances across.

Membrane transporters are specialized proteins embedded within cell membranes. They play a crucial role in regulating the passage of molecules into and out of cells, maintaining cellular homeostasis and enabling various biological functions.

Ion gradient

A difference in ion concentration across a membrane.

An ion gradient refers to an uneven distribution of charged ions (like sodium or potassium) across a cell membrane. This concentration difference is essential for various cellular processes, including nerve impulse transmission and nutrient transport.

Drug targets

Molecules or biological pathways that are intended to be modified by drugs to treat diseases.

Drug targets are specific molecules or cellular processes involved in disease development. By targeting these molecules with medications, researchers aim to disrupt disease progression and alleviate symptoms.