Chaperones

Chaperones are proteins that help other proteins fold correctly into their three-dimensional shapes, which are essential for their proper functioning. They also play a role in preventing the aggregation of misfolded proteins that can lead to diseases. Chaperones are thus an important component of protein homeostasis and their correct functioning is essential for a healthy cell. Chaperones are used in many different areas of biotechnology, from protein engineering to diagnostics and drug discovery. In addition, chaperones are used in many clinical treatments to manage the symptoms of protein-misfolding diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and cystic fibrosis.