RESEARCH: MEMBRANE TRANSPORT
FOLDING PROJECT #17920 PROFILE

This project looks at how sugar transporters work. These transporters move different types of sugars into and out of cells. By studying them, scientists can learn how they recognize different molecules, even ones that aren't sugar. This knowledge can be used to design new drugs that target specific transporters.

Membrane transporters are important for enabling molecules to go in and out of cells.

What is interesting is that while transporters typically have set functions, they can also transport molecules that do not necessarily relate to their function or cellular purpose.

For example, drugs often hijack transporters to enter cells without necessarily resembling the molecules or metabolites which that target transporter normally transports.

The goal of this project is to see how exactly a typical membrane transporter recognizes and transports molecules that look different from one another.

We choose a class of sugar transporters that transports a variety of different types of substrates to satisfy this goal.

Findings from this study can be generalized for the design of molecules (e.g., drugs) specific to a given transporter and its general mechanism.

Membrane transporters

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

Membrane transporters are crucial proteins found within cell membranes. They act like gateways, allowing specific molecules to enter or exit the cell. This process is essential for various cellular functions, including nutrient uptake, waste removal, and signal transduction.

Drugs

Chemical substances used to treat, cure, or prevent diseases.

Drugs are medicinal compounds designed to have a specific effect on the body. They can target various biological processes to alleviate symptoms, fight infections, or manage chronic conditions.

Molecules

The fundamental building blocks of matter, composed of atoms bonded together.

Molecules are the basic units that make up all substances. They consist of two or more atoms linked together by chemical bonds. Examples include water (H2O), oxygen (O2), and glucose (C6H12O6).

Substrate

A substance upon which an enzyme acts.

In biochemistry, a substrate is the molecule that an enzyme binds to and acts upon. The enzyme catalyzes (speeds up) a chemical reaction involving the substrate, converting it into products.

Transporter

A protein that facilitates the movement of molecules across a cell membrane.

Transporters are specialized proteins embedded in cell membranes. They play a vital role in moving various substances into and out of cells, ensuring proper cellular function.