Friday, August 2, 2019

LOCKR Artificial Protein


Artificial proteins are bioenginered so that may resemble or not resemble proteins found in the human body. These synthesized proteins can detect damage, disease, aid in natural cell processes, and can enhance normal cells into smarter cells. Recently developed is the LOCKR protein is a remarkably designed protein that can improve cell function in almost every way. The Latching Orthogonal Cage-Key pRotein, LOCKR, has no naturally occurring sibling. LOCKR is built with a barrel that houses a molecular arm; when the barrel is open, the arm can extend to aid in almost any cellular process.
The implications of this man made protein are expansive. First, to open the barrel a “key,” a specifically designed protein, needs to come in contact with LOCKR. This switch like mechanism resembles the simple switches that eventually make up a circuit board, and further a computer. Making the protein more like a biological equivalent to computer enhancement. But then, when the barrel is unlocked and the mechanical arm is exposed, the arm can reach into action. The arm can help degrade specific proteins, help be a traffic cop inside the cell, and even start the cells self-destruct sequence. The on/off switch allows LOCKR to sit idly within someone until it is switched on to perform its functions.
One of the biggest breakthroughs that LOCKR aids with is in instances of traumatic brain injury. Inflammation is the biggest response to traumatic brain injury. When there is too much inflammation, further injuries may result. If there is too little, then healing may never begin. Thus, LOCKR steps in. In the form of degronLOCKR, it can sense an excess of inflammation and help guide the immune system. This sophisticated technology can keep the inflammation response in the perfect window for healing to occur without injury. In summation, LOCKR can help enhance cells to meet the more acute needs of certain functions of the body.

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