Modeling Group

The "Modeling and Simulating in Medical Sciences (MSMS) Group" at the Research Institute of Endocrine Sciences was established in 2009, with its laboratory officially launched in 2010. This group has consistently focused on designing and conducting interdisciplinary research projects. These projects are primarily centered around topics related to endocrine glands, but other subjects that connect with medical sciences and biology are also considered.

The group’s activities mainly concentrate on theoretical studies (i.e., molecular modeling) of proteins and enzymes, alongside practical experiments conducted ex vivo (in vitro). However, we have also participated in joint projects that cover in vivo studies.

To date, the group has closely collaborated with other laboratories at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) and the University of Tehran for conducting in vitro experiments. In vivo studies typically follow up on results from in vitro research or theoretical studies that require examination using more complex models. In this regard, we have partnered with academic groups that have access to animal research laboratories and specialists in this field.

Currently, the group’s research projects include theoretical studies on pathogenic mutations of proteins, as well as in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies on protein aggregation (amyloid and amorphous aggregates). Several master's and doctoral students from various fields, including biochemistry, biophysics, physical chemistry, pharmaceutical biotechnology, physiology, and cell-molecular biology, have collaborated or are currently collaborating with the group.

In recent years, to enhance educational activities, the group has organized workshops on molecular modeling (structural bioinformatics), which include both theoretical and practical components.