Message from the RCSB PDB

The RCSB PDB's Molecule of the Month introduces readers to the structure and function of specific molecules, and shows how the structures function and their importance in our lives. Each entry is illustrated through descriptive text and pictures, with links to specific PDB entries, discussion questions, and interactive 3D molecular views. As of October 2010, there are now 130 articles describing everything from AAA+ proteases to zinc fingers.

These columns have been organized to help users explore the Molecule of the Month and the PDB archive in the context of biology. Major functional categories can be browsed by areas of interest. Within each topic, descriptive subcategories lead to the relevant Molecule of the Month features.

The major topic categories include:

• Protein Synthesis: including the major molecules of protein synthesis, from DNA to RNA to ribosomes to folded proteins.
• Enzymes: further organized enzyme class.
• Health and Disease: covers topics such as drug action, viruses, and the molecular basis of disease.
• Biological Energy: presents the processes for capturing and converting energy in cells.
• Infrastructure and Communication: includes topics such as structural proteins and cell signaling.
• Biotechnology and Nanotechnology: explores the ways scientists look to nature for inspiration, and harnessing biological machinery for use in science and technology.