RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #17797 PROFILE

This project uses computer simulations to study the serotonin transporter protein, which controls how much of the mood-regulating chemical serotonin is in our brains. By looking at how changes (mutations) in this protein affect its shape and function, researchers hope to gain insights into mental health disorders like depression and Parkinson's disease.

These projects contains simulations of the serotonin transporter, the protein responsible for terminating neurotransmission in neurons.

The neurotransmitter serotonin regulates various functions in the body such as mood, behavior, appettite, and sleep, and is a major drug targets for antidepressants.

Malfunctions in the serotonin transporter have been assoicated with mental disorders including depression and Parkinson's.

Our goal in performing these simulations is to understand how mutations affect the structure and dynamics of the serotonin transporter and provide insights to treat psychatric disorders assoicated with these mutations.

serotonin transporter

Protein responsible for terminating neurotransmission of serotonin.

The serotonin transporter is a protein found in neurons that helps regulate mood and other functions by removing serotonin from the brain. Mutations in this transporter can lead to mental health disorders like depression and Parkinson's disease.

neurotransmission

The process of transmitting signals across a synapse between neurons.

Neurotransmission is how nerve cells communicate with each other. Chemicals called neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and travel to another neuron, triggering a response.

serotonin

A neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.

Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions. Imbalances in serotonin levels can contribute to mental health disorders like depression.

antidepressants

Medications used to treat depression and other mood disorders.

Antidepressants are a class of medications prescribed to help manage symptoms of depression and other mood disorders. They work by affecting neurotransmitters like serotonin in the brain.

Parkinson's

A progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement.

Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that causes shaking, stiffness, slow movements, and balance problems. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.