Small molecules called osmolytes help proteins maintain their structure and function under stressful conditions, shows a recent study by a research team.
- The study provides important insights that could aid in the development of treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- The research team used a technique called covalent magnetic tweezers to observe how individual protein molecules fold and unfold under different conditions and interact with osmolytes.
- Osmolytes are small molecules that help cells survive stress by stabilizing proteins and preventing them from misfolding. Misfolded proteins can’t perform their functions properly, leading to diseases.
- Osmolytes are crucial in maintaining the stability of protein structures, making them potential targets for new drugs.
