RESEARCH: MEMBRANE TRANSPORT
FOLDING PROJECT #17921 PROFILE

This project looks at how sugar transporters in cells move different types of molecules, even those that don't seem related. Understanding this could help scientists design new drugs that specifically target certain 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 the membrane.

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

Drugs

Substances used to treat, cure, or prevent diseases.

Drugs are chemical compounds designed to interact with biological systems and produce a desired effect. They can be used to treat various conditions, from infections to chronic illnesses, by targeting specific receptors or pathways in the body.

Molecules

Atoms or groups of atoms held together by chemical bonds.

Molecules are the building blocks of matter. They are formed when two or more atoms bond together. Molecules can be simple or complex, and they play essential roles in various biological and chemical processes.

Substrates

Substances that undergo a chemical reaction catalyzed by an enzyme.

Substrates are the molecules that enzymes act upon. Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. Substrates bind to the active site of an enzyme, where the chemical reaction takes place.

Transporters

Proteins that facilitate the movement of molecules across cell membranes.

Transporters are essential proteins found in cell membranes. They help move various molecules into and out of the cell, ensuring proper cellular function. Different types of transporters exist for specific molecules or groups of molecules.