health
December 15, 2025
AlphaFold Reveals a Key Protein Behind Heart Disease
Discover how scientists used AlphaFold to map the protein behind heart disease and how this breakthrough could transform treatment.
TL;DR
- Scientists have mapped the structure of the apoB100 protein, which forms the scaffold of "bad cholesterol" (LDL).
- The discovery was achieved by combining cryo-electron microscopy with predictions from AlphaFold.
- ApoB100 is described as a cage-like shell that wraps around LDL particles and includes a ribbon-like belt.
- Understanding this structure could lead to new therapies for preventing and treating cardiovascular disease.
- This breakthrough is significant given that LDL is a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), the world's leading cause of death.
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