RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #17804 PROFILE

This project studies BAX, a protein involved in cell death (apoptosis), which is a potential target for lymphoma treatment. BAX changes shape dramatically when activated, making it a challenging target to study. Unlike a previous project that used special sampling techniques, this one takes a simpler approach.

BAX apoptotic protein --- a drug target in lymphoma. This is a homologous (i.e shares some structures) protein to BCL in projects 17800-03 --- as in there, I am testing adaptive sampling strategies --- this project is 'vanilla' (i.e.

no adaptive algorithm) and the problem here is probably much harder than in the previous project, this particular protein experiences 'activation' which is a massive structural change, a long tail unbinds and extends away from the protein.

BAX

Bcl-2 Associated X Protein

BAX is a protein involved in apoptosis, the process of programmed cell death. It plays a crucial role in regulating cell survival and death, often acting as a trigger for apoptosis.

apoptotic protein

A protein that participates in the process of apoptosis.

Apoptotic proteins are a group of molecules that control and execute the programmed death of cells. This process is essential for normal development and tissue homeostasis, eliminating damaged or unwanted cells.

lymphoma

A type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

Lymphoma is a cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of lymphocytes, white blood cells responsible for fighting infections. It can affect various parts of the lymphatic system, including lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow.

drug target

A molecule or biological process that is targeted by a drug to achieve a therapeutic effect.

Drug targets are specific molecules within the body that drugs aim to interact with. By modulating these targets, drugs can alter cellular processes and treat diseases.