RESEARCH: PARKINSONS
FOLDING PROJECT #18500 PROFILE

Project 18500 studies TMEM175, a protein that controls potassium flow in cells. It's found in lysosomes, which break down waste. While its exact role isn't clear, messed up TMEM175 is linked to Parkinson's disease. Researchers hope understanding TMEM175 can lead to new treatments for Parkinson's.

Project 18500 is running wild-type Transmembrane Protein 175 (TMEM175).

Transmembrane Protein 175 (TMEM175) is a protein in the lysosomal membrane that functions as a "channel" for potassium ions to move between the open space in the cell (the cytoplasm) and the space within the lysosome (the lysosomal lumen).

TMEM175 is thought to play an important role in autophagy as a lysosomal protein, but its exact function in this process is not yet clear.

Nevertheless, dysfunction of TMEM175 is implicated in the development of Parkinson’s.

We know this because several mutational variants of TMEM175 have been identified in Parkinson’s patients, and experiments have shown that mice with these variants have some of the molecular and behavioral hallmarks of Parkinson’s.

An understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of TMEM175 will lead to new ways to discover drugs or therapeutic interventions to treat, prevent, or potentially even reverse Parkinson’s Disease.

Transmembrane Protein 175

A protein located in cell membranes that transports potassium ions.

Transmembrane Protein 175 (TMEM175) is a protein found within the membranes of cells. Its primary role is to act as a channel, allowing potassium ions to move between the cell's interior and the lysosome, an organelle responsible for breaking down waste materials. This protein is believed to be important for autophagy, the process by which cells recycle their components. Research suggests that malfunctions in TMEM175 can contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease.

Lysosomal Membrane

The membrane that encloses the lysosome, an organelle involved in waste degradation.

The lysosomal membrane is a barrier that surrounds the lysosome, a cellular compartment responsible for breaking down waste products and cellular debris. This membrane plays a crucial role in regulating the transport of molecules into and out of the lysosome, ensuring proper functioning of this essential organelle.

Potassium Ions

Positively charged atoms of the element potassium.

Potassium ions (K+) are electrically charged particles of the element potassium. They play a vital role in various bodily functions, including nerve impulse transmission, muscle contractions, and maintaining fluid balance within cells.

Autophagy

The process of cellular self-eating, where damaged organelles or proteins are broken down and recycled.

Autophagy is a natural process within cells where they break down and recycle their own components. Think of it as cellular housekeeping. Damaged organelles or proteins are engulfed by a membrane and transported to a compartment called the lysosome, where they are degraded and reused. This process is essential for maintaining cellular health and removing harmful waste products.

Parkinson's Disease

A neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors, rigidity, and slow movements.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells in the part of the brain responsible for controlling movement are damaged and die. This damage leads to characteristic symptoms such as tremors (shaking), stiffness, slow movements, and difficulty with balance. There is no cure for Parkinson's, but treatments can help manage the symptoms.