This research focuses on biochemistry education, and intended to improve understanding amongst students. Success in the subject of biochemistry requires the visualization of three-dimensional molecules and gain a deep command of their functions and properties. In order to aid students in their knowledge retention, our research group printed three-dimensional protein structures of the major players in the biochemistry course. 3-D printing is a method that in recent years has become more commonplace as well as inexpensive. Using the protein database and the National Institute of Health (NIH) 3-D printing exchange website, various models of proteins were printed to be used during course instruction. These models represented protein structures existing in different conformations (<i>e.g</i>., substrate bound/unbound) in addition to smaller peptides, such as insulin. It is intended that these selected protein models will be used in future semesters for improving classroom instruction on the dynamic properties of proteins.

Utilizing 3-D printing to enhance classroom instruction of dynamic nature of proteins

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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