MIAX: A Novel System for Assessment of Macromolecular Interaction in Condensed Phases. 1) Description of the...

We describe a novel computer system directed to evaluate protein complex formation in a liquid environment. The relevant feature of the system is a potential function expressing the main thermodynamic and kinetic factors leading to protein interaction in solution. The protein interaction model expresses the interaction energy as basically composed of three forces: electrostatic (hydrogen bond), van der Waals, and hydrophobic. The latter is defined in function of the forces that the solvent molecules exert on the surface of the complex, and the van der Waals forces between the monomers and the solvent. The interaction model implemented in the system has proven a high discrimination ability between different protein dockings, scoring high those close to the observed crystal structures. These results have led to the establishment of the basic principles underlying protein interaction, which constitutes the main way of expression of the biological function of these macromolecules.