The archiving and dissemination of biological structure data

Area of Science:

• Structural biology
• Bioinformatics
• Data archiving

Background:

• The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is the premier global repository for 3D structural data of biological macromolecules.
• Established as the first open-access digital archive in biology, it has a rich history and continuous evolution.
• The management of the PDB relies on a global collaboration, the Worldwide Protein Data Bank (wwPDB).

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the historical development and evolution of the Protein Data Bank.
• To detail the processes of data collection, curation, validation, archiving, and dissemination within the PDB.
• To highlight the crucial role of community involvement in establishing PDB standards and policies.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of the Protein Data Bank's inception and growth.
• Description of data management workflows employed by the Worldwide Protein Data Bank (wwPDB).
• Analysis of community contributions to PDB governance and operational standards.

Main Results:

• The PDB has evolved significantly since its inception, becoming a cornerstone of structural biology research.
• Standardized procedures for data handling ensure the integrity and accessibility of structural information.
• Community consensus has been instrumental in shaping the PDB's policies and operational framework.

Conclusions:

• The PDB's success is attributed to its open-access model and robust data management practices.
• The collaborative efforts of the Worldwide Protein Data Bank (wwPDB) are essential for maintaining the archive's quality and utility.
• Community engagement is vital for the ongoing development and sustainability of biological data repositories.