Our genomes contain many mutations that could harm us, but most don’t cause issues thanks to proteins like HSP90, which buffer these effects. This buffering explains why some people with certain gene variants develop diseases while others don’t. It also helps cancer cells and pathogens evade drugs and allows genetic variation to accumulate, aiding evolution. Advances in genetic research have highlighted the practical applications of understanding these proteins, such as developing drugs targeting them. HSP90, in particular, might influence the risk of diseases like breast cancer. Historically, experiments by Conrad Waddington showed that environmental stress could reveal hidden genetic variations, suggesting that these proteins play a role in evolution by allowing organisms to adapt quickly to changes.
QUESTION: How might understanding the role of buffering proteins like HSP90 change the way we approach treating genetic diseases in the future?
These ‘master’ proteins protect us from deadly mutations — and could inspire new drugs
