Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Analyzing Melts and Fluids from Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulations with the UMD Package
Published on: September 17, 2021
The diversity of physical forces and mechanisms in intermolecular interactions
1Computational Biology Unit, Bergen Center for Computational Science, University of Bergen, 5008 Bergen, Norway. Igor.Berezovsky@uni.no
Abstract:
Intermolecular interactions became an inherent part of the structure-function paradigm. Therefore, the generalized concept of protein stability and interactions should consider the balance of stabilizing forces working in different types of intermolecular interactions. We consider here two 'extremes' of protein interactions, viral protein with high intrinsic disorder and hyperthermostable protein complexes. Intermolecular interactions provide folding upon binding as a part of function in the viral case, while they secure and stabilize specific native interfaces as a prerequisite for function in hyperthermostable complexes. We propose a generalized concept of protein stability and interactions, which includes intermolecular interactions comprising distinct combinations of stabilizing forces depending on the types of interacting partners.
Related Concept Videos
Intermolecular Forces and Physical Properties
Intermolecular vs Intramolecular Forces
Intermolecular Forces
Intermolecular Forces
Van der Waals Interactions
Comparing Intermolecular Forces: Melting Point, Boiling Point, and Miscibility
Temporary attractive forces like dispersion are present in all molecules, whether they are polar or nonpolar. They...
