Rice lab finds molecular clues to Wilson disease

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A mutation near the ATP binding site in the copper-regulating protein ATP7B causes Wilson disease. Credit: Agustina Rodriguez-Granillo
A mutation near the ATP binding site in the copper-regulating protein ATP7B causes Wilson disease. Credit: Agustina Rodriguez-Granillo
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Using a combination of computer simulations and cutting-edge lab experiments, physical biochemists at Rice University have discovered how a small genetic mutation -- which is known to cause Wilson disease -- subtly changes the structure of a large, complex protein that the body uses to keep copper from building up to toxic levels.


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