Prion Problem Space

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

BEDROCK

Collection:

BioQUEST Curriculum Consortium

Grade Level:

Post-secondary

Abstract:

Prions are relatively small proteins that display dramatically alternate conformations for similar primary structures. Abnormal conformations appear to cause fatal neurological diseases in a wide variety of mammals. Researchers are discovering the mechanisms behind these conformational changes, including differences that may lead to species barriers (or lack thereof) among exposed animals. How do these conformations differ?
How do small sequence differences affect susceptibility to conformational change? This problem space introduces basic skills in protein structure exploration. We will learn to search databases for protein structures, explore the Cn3D software, and propose questions that may be answered with these tools.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Activities and Labs, Readings, Teaching and Learning Strategies

Media Format:

Graphics/Photos, Text/HTML

Conditions of Use:

Custom Permissions
Teachers, curriculum developers, and students are welcome to download these materials for classroom use. Individual authors hold all rights for any other purposes such as publication or distribution for commercial purposes.