RESEARCH: MEMBRANE TRANSPORT
FOLDING PROJECT #17936 PROFILE

The project relates to how proteins use ion gradients to move molecules across cell membranes. This process is important for many biological functions and can be targeted by drugs to treat 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.

Transporters

Proteins that move molecules across cell membranes.

Transporters are essential proteins embedded in cell membranes that facilitate the movement of various substances into and out of cells. They play a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and transporting nutrients, ions, and waste products.

Secondary Active Transporters

Transmembrane proteins that use an ion gradient to power the transport of other molecules.

Secondary active transporters are a type of membrane protein that utilize the energy stored in an electrochemical gradient of ions (usually sodium or potassium) to move another molecule across the cell membrane. This process is called secondary active transport and is essential for many cellular functions.

Ion Gradient

The difference in concentration of ions across a membrane.

An ion gradient refers to the uneven distribution of charged particles (ions) across a cell membrane. This separation of charges creates an electrochemical potential that can be used by cells to perform various functions.

Molecular Basis

The fundamental chemical and physical principles that underlie a biological phenomenon.

Molecular basis refers to the underlying structure and interactions of molecules that contribute to a particular biological process. Understanding the molecular basis of a phenomenon allows us to delve into its mechanistic details at a fundamental level.

Simulations

Computer-based models used to mimic biological processes.

Simulations are powerful computational tools used in various scientific fields to represent and study complex systems. In biology, simulations can be used to model molecular interactions, cellular processes, or even entire ecosystems.