RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17802 PROFILE

This project explores using AI to understand how proteins work, specifically focusing on BCL-XL, a protein linked to lymphoma. Researchers are testing new methods called 'adaptive sampling' to build models of proteins from different data points. One version starts with many protein structures and connects them, while another starts with just one and predicts the rest.

BCL-XL apoptotic protein --- a drug target in lymphoma.

More info coming soon.

Together with project 17800 this is also testing new methodology --- adaptive sampling.

This is the adaptive (first time on F@h) sampling version of the system. Project 17801 tests a 'simpler' version of the problem for the adaptive sampling algorithm --- we start from 35 crystal structures and attempt to connect them into one model. Project 17802 tests a 'harder' version of the problem --- we start from just 1 crystal structure and attempt to predict the other ones.

BCL-XL

B Cell lymphoma 2-associated X protein

BCL-XL is a protein that plays a role in preventing cell death. It is often overexpressed in cancer cells, making it a potential drug target.

apoptotic protein

A protein involved in programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Apoptotic proteins are essential for regulating cell death. They are involved in a complex cascade of events that lead to the dismantling and removal of damaged or unnecessary cells.

lymphoma

A type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

Lymphoma is a group of cancers that begin in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. It can affect lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other tissues.

drug target

A molecule or biological pathway that is a potential therapeutic target for a drug.

Drug targets are often proteins or enzymes involved in disease processes. Developing drugs that interact with these targets can help treat or prevent diseases.

adaptive sampling

A method of selecting data points for analysis based on their properties.

Adaptive sampling is a technique used to improve the efficiency of computational simulations and analyses. It involves dynamically adjusting the selection criteria for data points based on the evolving characteristics of the system being studied.

crystal structure

The three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in a molecule.

Crystal structures reveal the precise arrangement of atoms within molecules. This information is crucial for understanding protein function and designing drugs that target specific proteins.