RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17791 PROFILE

Secondary active transporters are proteins that use ions to move molecules across cell membranes. They work in all living things and are important targets for treating diseases like cancer and diabetes. This project uses simulations to understand how these proteins work.

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 structure and function of molecules.

This refers to the underlying principles governing how molecules work at a chemical level. In this context, it likely focuses on how the structure of secondary active transporter proteins enables them to move molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters

Proteins that use an ion gradient to move molecules across cell membranes.

These specialized proteins act like cellular pumps, utilizing the energy stored in an electrochemical gradient of ions (like sodium or potassium) to drive the movement of other molecules (like nutrients or drugs) across cell membranes. This process is crucial for many biological functions and is often targeted by medications.

Ion gradient

A difference in concentration of ions across a membrane.

This refers to the uneven distribution of electrically charged atoms (ions) across a cell membrane. The movement of these ions creates an electrochemical gradient that can be harnessed by proteins like secondary active transporters to power the transport of other molecules.

Drug targets

Molecules or biological processes that are potential therapeutic targets.

Drug targets are specific molecules or pathways within the body that can be manipulated by medications to treat diseases. Secondary active transporters often serve as drug targets because their function is essential for many physiological processes and their disruption can have therapeutic effects.

Simulations

Computer-based models used to study biological systems.

Simulations are powerful tools that allow researchers to virtually experiment and explore the behavior of complex biological systems like secondary active transporters. They can help predict how changes in molecular structure or environment might affect protein function.