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Protein Organization

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Proteins are polymers of amino acid residues. They are versatile and responsible for different cellular functions, including DNA replication, molecular transport, catalysis, and structural support. Proteins have a hierarchical structure comprising at least three levels of organization: primary, secondary, and tertiary structure. Some large proteins have a quaternary structure where individual protein subunits are linked together.
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Updated: Dec 17, 2025

3D Printing of Biomolecular Models for Research and Pedagogy

3D Printing of Biomolecular Models for Research and Pedagogy

Published on: March 13, 2017

Interactive learning modules with 3D printed models improve student understanding of protein structure-function

Michelle E Howell^1,2,3, Christine S Booth², Sharmin M Sikich⁴

¹LCC International University, Klaipėda, Lithuania.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education : a Bimonthly Publication of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

|June 27, 2020

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Interactive 3D learning modules significantly improve undergraduate students' understanding of protein structure and function. These modules enhance visualization and retention of molecular concepts, addressing common misconceptions in biochemistry education.

Keywords:

3D printing allosteric regulation amino acids model-based learning molecular visualization protein structure-function student misconceptions undergraduate

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Last Updated: Dec 17, 2025

3D Printing of Biomolecular Models for Research and Pedagogy

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Area of Science:

Biochemistry Education
Structural Biology
Molecular Visualization

Background:

Undergraduate students often struggle to connect 2D representations of proteins to their 3D structures and biological functions.
Common misconceptions include the nature of protein space, amino acid bond rotation, and the distinction between product inhibition and allostery.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop and evaluate 3D learning modules designed to improve undergraduate students' understanding of protein structure-function relationships.
To address specific misconceptions related to molecular visualization and biochemical concepts.

Main Methods:

Designed three interactive 3D learning modules utilizing 3D printed models of amino acids, proteins, and allosteric regulation.
Incorporated pre- and post-assessments to measure learning gains.
Compared learning outcomes between students using the modules and a control group.

Main Results:

Students using the 3D modules achieved normalized learning gains of 30% on module-specific assessments, versus 17% in the control group.
A comprehensive assessment showed normalized learning gains of 19% for module users, compared to 3% for the control group.

Conclusions:

Interactive 3D modules effectively enhance undergraduate students' ability to visualize and retain complex molecular structures and their functions.
This approach shows promise in correcting misconceptions and improving overall comprehension in biochemistry and structural biology education.