Protein Modeling News: 2009 NJSO Results posted New to protein modeling? Check out a video of protein modeling demo and the 2009 results to see what it's all about. Questions? Email buildmodels@deposit.rcsb.org

Protein Modeling was a trial event at the 2009 NJSO. Teams built ribonucleases.

How The Event Works

BEFORE THE COMPETITION:	TOOLS:
Build a model of ribonuclease A using the protein part of PDB entry 1rta and bring it to IMPOUND. Write a brief abstract that describes your model and the protein's structure and function. The same prebuild model can be used at the regional and state level.	Mini-toober Kit, Jmol, Molecule of the Month, PDB file for 1rta, Other Resources Please see the HINTS page and the Demonstration Video for a quick start.

AT THE COMPETITION:	TOOLS:
Bring your model and abstract to be impounded! Build a portion of a PDB entry with a Mini-Toober using Jmol as a guide. Answer questions about the structure, function, importance, and history of the modeled protein. A portion of 1rta will be modeled at regionals; a portion of 1dfj will be modeled at state.	Materials will be made available for use during this exam. Want to practice for the on-site build? A zinc finger is available in Jmol for practice. Teams should also have a general understanding of protein function and structure, and be aware of the types of experiments (X-ray, NMR, cryo-EM) that produce the 3D coordinates in the PDB.

The information used to build these protein models comes from the PDB. The molecular structures housed in the PDB range from small pieces of protein or DNA to complex machines, such as viruses and ribosomes. Each molecule plays a role in at least one biological process and has value in helping scientists unravel the mysteries of life. Their structures provide insight into these molecules' roles in fundamental biological processes and, in some cases, into their possible roles in disease or drug interactions.