HAMLET (protein complex)

HAMLET (protein complex)

HAMLET (Human Alpha-lactalbumin Made Lethal to Tumor cells) is a protein complex derived from alpha-lactalbumin and oleic acid. It was discovered in the 1990s by researchers at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. HAMLET has been found to have tumoricidal properties, specifically against certain types of cancer cells.

Structure

HAMLET is a complex of alpha-lactalbumin and oleic acid. Alpha-lactalbumin is a protein that is normally involved in the production of lactose in the mammary gland. When it binds with oleic acid, it changes its conformation and gains new properties.

Function

The primary function of HAMLET is to kill tumor cells. It does this by interacting with the plasma membrane of the tumor cells and causing them to undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death. HAMLET has been found to be effective against a variety of tumor cells, including those from glioblastoma, carcinoma, and leukemia.

Clinical significance

HAMLET has potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of cancer. Studies have shown that it can kill tumor cells without harming healthy cells, making it a promising candidate for cancer therapy. However, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanism of action and to develop methods for its delivery in the body.

Research

Research on HAMLET is ongoing, with studies focusing on its structure, function, and potential therapeutic applications. Some of the key areas of research include understanding how HAMLET interacts with tumor cells, identifying the molecular targets of HAMLET, and developing methods for its delivery in the body.

See also

• Alpha-lactalbumin
• Apoptosis
• Cancer therapy

External links

• HAMLET Protein Complex