Foundations of Structural Biology

Structural biology, which examines the three-dimensional arrangement of biological macromolecules, is at the forefront of scientific innovation. The understanding of structural intricacies within proteins and nucleic acids is not only fundamental to grasping basic biological functions but also holds immense potential for therapeutic development through the inhibition of specific protein targets. Over the past few decades, structural biology has undergone a remarkable revolution. Macromolecular crystallography, a technique for determining molecular structures through crystal analysis, has matured significantly. It allows for the rapid elucidation of structures once suitable crystals are grown. This progress has been complemented by small-angle solution X-ray scattering, which provides valuable insights into macromolecular arrangements in solution. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) has emerged as a valuable tool for studying macromolecular dynamics in solution, offering a dynamic perspective on molecular behavior. Furthermore, the field of structural biology has witnessed a groundbreaking transformation with the advent of cryo electron microscopy (cryoEM). This technique, propelled by the development of direct detectors, allows researchers to achieve near-atomic resolution in studying macromolecular complexes, providing unprecedented insights.

This book on structural biology is organized into seven comprehensive chapters, each shedding light on different facets of this fascinating field.