Nature 232, 255 - 257 (23 July 1971); doi:10.1038/232255a0

Interactive Computer Display for the Three Dimensional Study of Macromolecular Structures

EDGAR F. MEYER JUN.

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

THE application of real-time, three dimensional computer graphics to molecular structure studies has been limited so far to rather expensive, dedicated computer display devices^1,2 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.

References

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