A sub-atomic solution

摘要

The primary underlying cause of many of these degenerative conditions is the accumulation of misfolded proteins called amyloids.The proteins themselves typically have a norma! functional role but may be susceptible to abnormal denaturation that can lead to uncontrolled assembly of fibrils that aggregate in the body as plaques.It has long been known that amyloid build-up in tissues throughout the body can cause major health problems,and may seriously compromise organ function in a wide range of diseases.However,the molecular mechanisms involved remain poorly understood.The toxicity effects at the root of amyloidosis are the focus of a great deal of research-ranging from studies of the precursor molecules of the plaques,to the amyloid assembly process itself,and the disruption caused to the correct function of membranes and the physical damage to the architecture of cells and tissues.Consequently,researchers arc seeking a better understanding of the proteins that make up these amyloid aggregates,and the way they form.