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.