Abstract:  Our bodies contain 30,000 different proteins that must be in the proper location and correct shape, or fold, in order to function properly. However, proteins may unfold due to mutations or various stresses, such as the presence of toxic chemicals or excessive heat. Luckily, our cells contain specialized proteins, called molecular chaperones, which help ensure that other proteins fold correctly. These molecular chaperones scan the cell for unfolded proteins and either help them fold or target them for degradation, essentially 'taking out the trash'. Many diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, Alzheimer's disease, type-two diabetes and 'mad cow' disease are due to altered protein folding. By better understanding how chaperones work, we may be able to harness their power to overcome some of the harmful effects of these diseases. Research in my laboratory focuses on the Hsp90 molecular machine, which has important roles in cystic fibrosis and multiple types of cancer.