The Folded Structure of an AIDS-Related Enzyme

When we are very knowledgeable about a subject and are having trouble solving a related problem, it can be challenging on the ego for some of us to watch as a complete stranger with no unique insight stumble across the solution as if by magic. When AIDS researchers ran into difficulties identifying the structure of an AIDS-related enzyme, that is essentially what happened.

They had been trying in vain for years to figure out the structure. They decided to try a unique approach and let someone else handle the situation. In this instance, they made use of the puzzle game Foldit. Users can experiment with protein and enzyme structures in the game to determine the best methods to fold them.

For 13 years, scientists had been attempting to understand this specific enzyme. Users discovered the method in just three weeks after it was added to the game so that the gaming community may test it out. By no means was the ultimate result a cure for AIDS, but it was a significant step toward comprehending and treating diseases like AIDS.