ERIC Number: EJ1147662
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1470-8175
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Using Molecular Visualization to Explore Protein Structure and Function and Enhance Student Facility with Computational Tools
Terrell, Cassidy R.; Listenberger, Laura L.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, v45 n4 p318-328 Jul-Aug 2017
Recognizing that undergraduate students can benefit from analysis of 3D protein structure and function, we have developed a multiweek, inquiry-based molecular visualization project for Biochemistry I students. This project uses a virtual model of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) to guide students through multiple levels of protein structure analysis. The first assignment explores primary structure by generating and examining a protein sequence alignment. Subsequent assignments introduce 3D visualization software to explore secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structure. Students design an inhibitor, based on scrutiny of the enzyme active site, and evaluate the fit of the molecule using computed binding energies. In the last assignment, students introduce a point mutation to model the active site of the related COX-2 enzyme and analyze the impact of the mutation on inhibitor binding. With this project we aim to increase knowledge about, and confidence in using, online databases and computational tools. Here, we share results of our mixed methods pre- and postsurvey demonstrating student gains in knowledge about, and confidence using, online databases and computational tools.
Descriptors: Undergraduate Students, College Science, Biochemistry, Science Instruction, Inquiry, Active Learning, Molecular Structure, Visual Aids, Student Projects, Computer Uses in Education, Models, Databases, Computation, Mixed Methods Research, Pretests Posttests, Student Surveys, Knowledge Level, Self Esteem
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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