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Interactive Computer Display for the Three Dimensional Study of Macromolecular Structures

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Abstract

THE application of real-time, three dimensional computer graphics to molecular structure studies has been limited so far to rather expensive, dedicated computer display devices1,2 or to fairly simple structures. The frequently used display device has been a black-and-white cathode ray tube3 with a split image or rotating image. This communication discusses the application of a colour television monitor to macromolecular modelling. Even with a small, 4,096 word laboratory computer driving the graphics display, it is now possible to view three dimensional models of large portions of macromolecular structures determined by X-ray diffraction studies. I am now assembling a library of protein structures for three dimensional display in conjunction with the Department of Chemistry, Brookhaven National Laboratory, for educational and research purposes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A and M University, College Station, Texas, 77843

    EDGAR F. MEYER JUN.

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  1. EDGAR F. MEYER JUN.
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MEYER, E. Interactive Computer Display for the Three Dimensional Study of Macromolecular Structures. Nature 232, 255–257 (1971). https://doi.org/10.1038/232255a0

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