This week, AP Biology students participated in a two-day activity to enhance their knowledge of protein folding, an essential topic in their "Chemistry of Life" unit.
On the first day, students explored how proteins, which play essential roles in the body, fold into specific three-dimensional shapes to function correctly. They focused on the principles behind protein folding, including how amino acids—the fundamental units of proteins—interact to form these complex structures. The activity allowed students to investigate how this process works and why it is vital for sustaining life. It also emphasized the key concepts without overwhelming students with excessive detail, ensuring a clear understanding of these molecular interactions.
On the second day, students took a hands-on approach, constructing a model of a zinc finger motif, a structure found in many proteins that bind to DNA. Using a specialized kit from 3D Molecular Designs, they explored and manipulated the way amino acids come together to determine a protein's shape. "This modeling kit allows students to see a process that is otherwise difficult to visualize and apply their knowledge of polarity," explained Dr. Ricci, AP Biology teacher. "Understanding interactions between amino acids with different properties is foundational for AP Biology and sets our students up for success."
By blending theoretical concepts with interactive learning, the activity offered students a stronger grasp of intricate biological processes, preparing them for more advanced topics in their studies.
