Protein Misfolding Disorders
Protein misfolding disorders are a group of diseases caused by proteins that do not fold into their correct shapes. Proper protein folding is essential for their function, and when this process goes awry, it can lead to the formation of toxic aggregates. These misfolded proteins can disrupt cellular functions and contribute to various health issues.
Common examples of protein misfolding disorders include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. In these conditions, the accumulation of misfolded proteins can lead to neurodegeneration and other serious symptoms. Understanding these disorders is crucial for developing potential treatments and therapies.