RESEARCH: MEMBRANE TRANSPORT
FOLDING PROJECT #17933 PROFILE

Secondary active transporters are proteins that use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes. This project uses simulations to understand how these important proteins work, as they're used in treating diseases like cancer and diabetes.

Molecular basis of secondary active transporters. Secondary active membrane transporters are proteins that utilize ions to transport an assortment of molecules across cell membranes.

These proteins are found in all domains in life and surprisingly, despite vastly different structures, operate under the same mechanism by using an ion gradient to assist in small molecule transport.

Furthermore, many of these secondary active transporters are drug targets to treat diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

The simulations in this project will allow us to understand a universal role of ion-coupling across different families of proteins.

Secondary active transporters

Proteins that use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are a type of protein found in all living things. They help move different molecules across the barriers of cells by using energy from an existing concentration gradient of ions (like sodium or potassium). This process is essential for many cellular functions, and malfunctions in these transporters can lead to various diseases.

Ion gradient

A difference in concentration of ions across a membrane.

An ion gradient is a difference in the number of charged particles (ions) on either side of a cell membrane. These gradients are created by specialized proteins that pump ions against their concentration gradient, using energy from processes like cellular respiration. Ion gradients play a crucial role in many cellular functions, including nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and nutrient uptake.

Simulations

Computer models used to mimic biological processes.

Simulations are computer programs that create virtual environments to represent real-world systems, like cells or molecules. These simulations can be used to study complex biological processes, predict the behavior of drugs, and design new therapies.

Drug targets

Molecules or biological pathways involved in disease that can be targeted by drugs.

Drug targets are specific molecules or cellular processes that contribute to the development or progression of a disease. By targeting these molecules with drugs, scientists aim to interrupt disease pathways and achieve therapeutic effects.