A Mobile Device Application as a Tool That Promotes the Understanding of Protein Structure and Function Relationship

Abstract

Understanding the relationship between protein structure and function can be challenging for students. Molecular visualization software aids students in this problem by allowing manipulation of structures from new and deeper perspectives. In this communication, an activity using iMolview Lite, structure visualization software for portable devices, is presented. By analyzing both human insulin and a designed variant of this hormone with iMolview Lite, students explore different protein structural elements and discuss how modifications on structure affect the pharmacological action rate. After the class, students expressed great satisfaction with the activity, highlighting it as a friendly and an attractive way to explore the protein structure and function relationship. In conclusion, iMolview Lite is a powerful tool that offers meaningful learning and motivation; thus, it is useful for students to comprehend the complex concept of molecular structure. In addition, insulin and its designed variant represent an appealing model of study. Overall, this activity allows students to gain a deeper understanding of protein structure features and how to relate them to function.

A Mobile Device Application for Visualizing Molecular Symmetry and Orbitals in Augmented Reality

“…With smartphones becoming omnipresent in recent years, there has also been an explosion of educational applications for mobile devices (e.g., smartphones and tablets). − These are capable of capitalizing on an integrated camera and touchscreens which can allow students to interact with the molecular level of chemistry in a novel way . Among the applications available, a number have taken advantage of recent advances in extended reality including augmented reality (AR) where digital elements can be overlaid onto the real-world environment through the device screen. ,,,,− This offers an enhanced and immersive experience, and there is mounting evidence to suggest that AR is a promising pedagogical resource for enhancing student understanding and increasing motivation. ,,,,,− However, to the authors’ knowledge only a few AR applications published to date include some limited aspects of symmetry or orbitals, ,,, with none offering a comprehensive tool for visualizing and teaching these important chemical concepts.…”

“Discovering a glycoprotein: The case of the H,K-ATPase”. An Online Game for Improvement of Reading Skills in a Course of Biological Chemistry

“…Inclusion of gamification in curricula and pedagogical practices has proliferated in the past decade. There are several studies reporting association of online games with STEM education. − Particularly in relation to chemistry learning, da Silva et al . created a role-based game in order to introduce students to theoretical aspects of intermolecular forces.…”