RESEARCH: MYOSINS
FOLDING PROJECT #18301 PROFILE

This project looks at different types of myosin proteins found in the human body. Myosins are responsible for movement, like muscle contractions and moving things inside cells. The project focuses on how fast and strong each type is to understand diseases caused by faulty myosins, like heart problems and Usher syndrome.

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.

Myosins

Proteins responsible for force generation in the body.

Myosins are a group of proteins crucial for various bodily functions. They generate force for muscle contraction, cell movement, and intracellular transport. Different types of myosins have unique properties and distributions within the body. Studying these differences can provide insights into diseases caused by myosin defects, such as Usher syndrome and cardiomyopathies.

Usher syndrome

A genetic disorder causing both hearing loss and vision impairment.

Usher syndrome is a group of inherited disorders characterized by progressive hearing loss and vision impairment. It affects various parts of the body, including the inner ear, retina, and brain. Research into the genetic basis of Usher syndrome aims to develop treatments and improve the lives of those affected.

Cardiomyopathies

Diseases affecting the heart muscle.

Cardiomyopathies are a group of disorders that weaken or stiffen the heart muscle, making it difficult to pump blood effectively. There are different types of cardiomyopathies, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle) and dilated cardiomyopathy (enlargement of the heart chambers). Treatments aim to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

A type of cardiomyopathy characterized by thickening of the heart muscle.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disorder that causes the heart muscle to thicken abnormally. 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. Treatments focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Dilated cardiomyopathy

A type of cardiomyopathy characterized by enlargement of the heart chambers.

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition where the heart's main pumping chambers become enlarged and weakened. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup in the body. Causes include genetic factors, infections, and high blood pressure. Treatments aim to manage symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications.