Online gaming for understanding folding, interactions, and structure

摘要

Foldit is a multiplayer online game that utilizes fundamental bonding concepts instead of computing power to resolve protein structures that have eluded researchers. Reported herein is the use of Foldit as a problem-based learning assignment for the understanding of protein folding, interactions, and structure. The program offers tutorial puzzles to introduce the student to both biochemistry and gaming concepts followed by scientific puzzles that allow the students to contribute to significant research. This assignment is ideal for biochemistry as well as general, organic, and biochemistry (GOB) courses.