Project Description:

As part of the unit on Macromolecules you will be collaborating with another student to build example of representative structures of a macromolecule.

You and your partner will be required to build a model using only the materials from class to represent your structure (no exceptions). Additionally, you will be required to submit a short summary of your model which explains what you are are attempting to represent. This paragraph should function as a key to understanding your representation of the structure.

2010 January Project

Modeling Bovine Pancreatic Trypsin Inhibitor

You will be require to build a three dimensional model of the above protein to show

    1. primary structure- there is no real need to show the exact sidchain for each amino acid but you may choose to show several that are key to the reaction your enzyme facilitates.

    2. Secondary Structure- please correctly display the helixes and sheets that are found in the structure. This should include the hydrogen bonds between backbones for this structural motif.

    3. Tertiary Structure-  Show all tertiary interactions for this protein

    4. Quarternary Structure- Some proteins do not show  quarternary structure but some do. Decide if this protein does choose a way to model it.

You will be required to submit a one page description of you model. This should include what this protein does and its substrate.  Additionally- you should include a description of what your model is using to show the criteria above. For example. " Paperclips were used to show the backbone interactions of the alpha helixes."

Be sure that your name is attached to the model in some way and both partners are included on the page to be turned in with the model description.

Project for 2009

Before Build Day-  Please research and answer the following questions individually

Read the Molecule of the Month Feature for Zinc Fingers

1. What is a zinc finger? What is it's function?

       1. Review the basic structure of a bacterium and identify wher peptidoglycan is found.

       2. What is peptidoglycan? Be specific and explain its structure. Diagrams are suggested.

       3. What macromolecules does peptidoglycan contain? Carbs? Proteins? Nucleic Acids? Lipids?

       4. Could peptidoglycan synthesis be a target for antibiotics? Which areas of the structure could    

           human immunity defenses attack?

       5. Review posted links and resources for peptidoglycan.

On Build Day- Please check your assigned partner

       1. Using the kit available to you and your partner build one monomer unit of peptidoglycan.

            You need to represent the structure with and emphasis on the carbohydrate portion of the

            molecule.

       2. The model can be constructed from the materials in the kit. No exceptions. Please take the time

            to communicate with your partner how and what you feel the model should highlight.

       3. You and your partner need to submit a paragraph (one per partnership) describing how your

            model shows the structure of peptidoglycan. For example- if a particular color highlights a

            feature please note that in your paragraph. Should also include a quick schematic represetation

            of your model on the paragraph page.

      4. You will have one lab period to finish the model and complete the paragraph.

      5. Place your model inside the plastic baggie with your paragraph. Please write both partners

          names on the outside of the baggie.