Imagine a tiny intricate machine responsible for vital functions within your cells.
Understanding how these machines made of proteins are built (their structure) is the domain
of structural biology. This field acts as a bridge between the fundamental building blocks of
life and the fight against disease. By visualizing protein structures in atomic detail
scientists can pinpoint how malfunctions arise. Misfolded proteins for example are linked to
disorders like Alzheimer's. This knowledge allows researchers to design drugs that target
specific protein shapes potentially correcting malfunctions and paving the way for new disease
treatments
