RESEARCH: MEMBRANE TRANSPORT
FOLDING PROJECT #17942 PROFILE

Secondary active transporters are proteins that use ions to move molecules across cell membranes. They're found in all living things and work the same way, even if they look different. The project relates to understanding how these transporters work across different types of proteins because they're important drug targets for 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 ions to transport molecules across cell membranes.

Secondary active transporters are essential proteins found in all living organisms. They utilize the energy stored in ion gradients to move various molecules across cell membranes. These transporters play a crucial role in many biological processes, such as nutrient uptake, waste removal, and signaling. Due to their involvement in various diseases, they are also important drug targets for treating conditions like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

Ion gradient

A difference in ion concentration across a cell membrane.

An ion gradient refers to the unequal distribution of charged ions (like sodium or potassium) between the inside and outside of a cell. This difference in concentration is essential for various cellular functions, including nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and nutrient uptake. Cells maintain these gradients through specialized proteins called pumps and channels.

Simulations

Computer models used to mimic biological processes.

Simulations are powerful tools used in computational biology to study complex biological systems. By creating virtual models of cells or molecules, researchers can investigate how they interact and function under different conditions. Simulations help accelerate drug discovery by allowing scientists to test potential therapies before conducting expensive and time-consuming experiments.