RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #18300 PROFILE

This project looks at different types of myosin proteins found in our bodies. Myosins are important for movement, like muscles contracting and things moving inside cells. The project studies how fast and strong each type is to learn about diseases caused by faulty myosins, such as heart problems.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

This project simulates several myosins found in the human body.

Myosins are the proteins responsible for most of the force generated by the body, from the contraction of muscles to the movement of materials around the cell.

Although superficially similar, myosins actually differ substantially in their properties and distribution in the body.

This project is studying those differences, especially the differences in speed and power.

We are interested in how this might help us understand diseases that result from defects in myosin, including Usher syndrome and, especially, hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies.

Myosin was featured as the PDB Molecule of the Month in June 2001.

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myosins

Proteins responsible for force generation in the body.

Myosins are essential proteins found in all living cells. They are responsible for converting chemical energy into mechanical work, allowing for muscle contraction, cell movement, and transportation of materials within cells. Defects in myosin function can lead to various diseases, including Usher syndrome and cardiomyopathies.

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proteins

Large biomolecules essential for various biological functions.

Proteins are complex molecules made up of chains of amino acids. They perform a wide range of functions in living organisms, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, transporting molecules, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes.

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muscle

A tissue responsible for movement and force generation.

Muscle tissue is a type of specialized tissue that allows for movement. It contracts and relaxes in response to nerve impulses, generating force that enables locomotion, posture maintenance, and organ function.

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cell

The basic unit of life.

Cells are the fundamental building blocks of all living organisms. They carry out essential life processes such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction.

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disease

A disorder that affects the normal functioning of an organism.

Disease is a broad term encompassing any condition that disrupts the normal function of an organism. It can be caused by various factors, including genetic defects, infections, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices.

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Usher syndrome

A rare genetic disorder that causes both hearing loss and vision loss.

Usher syndrome is a genetic condition that leads to progressive hearing impairment and visual problems. It affects various genes involved in the development of sensory systems.

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hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

A condition in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally thickened.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic heart disease characterized by thickening of the heart muscle. This thickening can make it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.

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dilated cardiomyopathy

A condition in which the heart chambers enlarge and weaken.

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease that causes the heart's chambers to enlarge and become weak. This weakness makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs.