Description of Project

Why Grid Computing?

       Grid computing is a revolutionary technology in which millions of individual computer devices are linked to a huge global supercomputer. These devices include desktops, laptops, game systems, and even mobile phones. This technological network has a much quicker processing time as compared to a normal personal computer we think of today. Because data can be processed simultaneously, research time is drastically shortened, which is more cost-effective. Grid technology works via volunteers downloading and installing a program on their computer. Our group began the use of this technology by downloading our own computing grid, which is discussed in more detail below.
       The personal computer will perform computations of data that it receives from the World Community Grid’s server then send the results back. Since scientists do not have to individually calculate the data, the grid computations speed up the rate of research. This critical information is vital to current research projects, leads to more accurate diagnosis of diseases, and quicker analysis of medical images.
To learn more about grid computing, visit the following links: http://www.gridcafe.org/EN/who-can-use-grid-computing.html
http://www.worldcommunitygrid.org/index.jsp

Grid Computing And Cystic Fibrosis

Our group is using a grid in particular entitled POEM@Home. Protein Optimization with Energy Methods is utilized to:

• predict the biologically active structure of proteins
• understand the signal-processing mechanisms when the proteins interact with one another
• understand diseases related to protein malfunction or aggregation
• develop new drugs on the basis of the three-dimensional structure of biologically important proteins
• simulate miscellaneous nanoscale systems, which are of importance for current biological or physical research

This grid's ultimate goal is to solve scientific mysteries pertaining to the biological encoding of proteins with unknown structures.
To participate in this grid computing project as well, visit: http://boinc.fzk.de/poem/index.php

Cystic Fibrosis Background

       To determine the reasoning behind becoming a volunteer in the grid computing project, we look to a disease in particular: cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a genetically inherited disease which is characterized by a buildup of thick, sticky mucus within the organ systems. Mucus is a slippery, watery substance which keeps the lining of organs and airways moist and prevents desiccation. This disease disrupts the salt balance within the body. Too little salt and water within the body causes the normally thin layer of mucus to become thick and sticky. This environment is ideal for excessive bacterial growth. The thick mucus is difficult to cough up, which clogs the airways and leads to frequent and serious lung infections. These infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, cause chronic coughing, wheezing, and inflammation. With time, the infections result in permanent lung damage due to the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) and cysts in the lungs.

Normal airway vs airway with CF
http://discovermagazine.com/2013/september/14-doorway-to-a-cure

       In addition to lung issues, many people with cystic fibrosis also experience digestive problems. Babies affected often have an intestinal blockage, referred to as meconium ileus. Blockage of the pancreas also occurs via blockage of the pancreatic ducts. This reduces the production of insulin and prevents enzymes from reaching the intestines to aid in digestion. For those with cystic fibrosis, there is a greater likelihood for diabetes and osteoporosis.
       The cause of cystic fibrosis is from a gene mutation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). The CFTR gene encodes a protein that affects multiple bodily organ systems. This protein functions to produce mucus, sweat, saliva, tears, and digestive enzymes. CFTR transports chloride ions into and out of tissues via protein channels. The transport of these ions help to regulate water flow into and out of tissues, which is necessary for the production of thin mucus. Normal humans contain two copies of the CFTR gene. Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disease, which can only be expressed if both parents are carriers. If a child inherits two mutated copies of a defective CFTR gene, cystic fibrosis results. On the other hand, if an individual only inherits one defective copy of the gene, he or she still express enough normal copies of the gene to lead a normal life.
       This uprising disease has about 1,000 new cases diagnosed each year, with about 70% of patients diagnosed by the age of two. The predicted age of survival with this disease is until early 40s. With current education and research, scientists are seeking a cure for cystic fibrosis. With our grid application, POEM@Home seeks to understand protein mutations in relation to cystic fibrosis.
To learn more about cystic fibrosis, visit the following links: http://www.cff.org/AboutCF/
http://embryo.asu.edu/pages/cystic-fibrosis-transmembrane-conductance-regulator-cftr-gene
http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/cystic-fibrosis
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/147960.php