Modeling Oligomeric Structures of Amyloid forming Peptides

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Abstract

This project aims to develop atomic-scale models of the many different types of oligomeric assemblies of Beta-Amyloid peptides that are responsible for damage to neurons and Alzheimer's disease. These models are derived from all available physically determined data, including electron and atomic force microscopies. The ultimate goal is to aid in the development of drugs to disrupt and/or inactivate these assemblies as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. We have developed idealized models containing both one and two distinct conformations of the peptides. These form aqueous and membrane-bound oligomers, and ion channels. The structures also contain GM1 and cholesterol lipids.