Factors that control protein levels of HSP20

HSP20 is a cardioprotective protein that can guard against certain forms of heart disease. HSP20 levels in cells are influenced by natural protein turnover and increases in HSP20 concentration could be beneficial for those at risk of heart disease. The Baillie lab has identified proteins from a degradation pathway that bind to HSP20 and may orchestrate its destruction. The project seeks to verify if the destructive proteins are the cause of low HSP20 levels. If so, a new therapeutic strategy could be blocking the interaction between HSP20 and these destructive elements.