# structural biology > study of molecular structures in biology **Wikidata**: [Q908902](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q908902) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_biology) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/structural-biology ## Summary Structural biology is the study of molecular structures in biology, focusing on the three-dimensional arrangements of biological molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and complexes. It is a specialized branch of molecular biology that employs techniques like X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance to determine these structures. This field is crucial for understanding biological processes at the molecular level and has led to significant advancements in medicine and biotechnology. ## Key Facts - Structural biology is a subfield of molecular biology, which itself is a branch of biology. - It involves the study of molecular structures in living organisms, including proteins, nucleic acids, and their complexes. - Key techniques used in structural biology include X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance. - Notable contributors to the field include Jacques Dubochet, Elena Conti, Dan S. Tawfik, Patrick Cramer, Jane Shelby Richardson, Eva Nogales, James A. Lake, Ada Yonath, and Roger D. Kornberg. - The academic discipline of structural biology is supported by journals such as *Nature Structural & Molecular Biology*, which was established in 1994. - Structural biology has applications in drug discovery, evolutionary biology, and understanding protein dynamics. ## FAQs **What is the primary focus of structural biology?** Structural biology focuses on determining the three-dimensional structures of biological molecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, to understand their functions and interactions. **Which techniques are commonly used in structural biology?** Common techniques include X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. **Who are some notable figures in structural biology?** Notable figures include Jacques Dubochet, Elena Conti, Dan S. Tawfik, Patrick Cramer, Jane Shelby Richardson, Eva Nogales, James A. Lake, Ada Yonath, and Roger D. Kornberg. **What is the relationship between structural biology and molecular biology?** Structural biology is a specialized branch of molecular biology that focuses on the molecular structures of biological systems. **How does structural biology contribute to drug discovery?** By revealing the structures of proteins and their interactions, structural biology provides insights that can guide the development of targeted therapies and drugs. ## Why It Matters Structural biology plays a critical role in advancing our understanding of biological processes at the molecular level. It provides the structural foundation for molecular biology, enabling researchers to visualize and manipulate biological molecules. This knowledge is essential for developing new drugs, understanding evolutionary mechanisms, and exploring protein dynamics. The field has also been instrumental in solving major biological puzzles, such as the structure of the ribosome, and has led to breakthroughs in medicine and biotechnology. ## Notable For - Being a specialized branch of molecular biology focused on molecular structures. - Employing advanced techniques like X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. - Contributing to significant discoveries in drug development and evolutionary biology. - Having notable contributors such as Jacques Dubochet, Ada Yonath, and Roger D. Kornberg. - Publishing research in journals like *Nature Structural & Molecular Biology*. ## Body ### Foundations Structural biology is a specialized field within molecular biology, which is itself a branch of biology. It focuses on the three-dimensional structures of biological molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and their complexes. The field is essential for understanding how these molecules function and interact within living organisms. ### Techniques Key techniques used in structural biology include X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These methods allow researchers to determine the atomic arrangements of biological molecules, providing insights into their functions and interactions. ### Notable Contributors Several notable figures have contributed to the development of structural biology. Jacques Dubochet, a Swiss chemist, has made significant advancements in cryo-electron microscopy. Elena Conti, an Italian biochemist, has also made notable contributions to the field. Other key contributors include Dan S. Tawfik, Patrick Cramer, Jane Shelby Richardson, Eva Nogales, James A. Lake, Ada Yonath, and Roger D. Kornberg. ### Applications Structural biology has numerous applications in drug discovery, evolutionary biology, and understanding protein dynamics. By revealing the structures of proteins and their interactions, researchers can develop targeted therapies and gain insights into biological processes. ### Publications The academic discipline of structural biology is supported by journals such as *Nature Structural & Molecular Biology*, which was established in 1994. This journal publishes research that advances the field of structural biology and its applications. ## References 1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 2. BabelNet 3. Quora 4. [Source](https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/DetailsPage/1297.02008?OpenDocument) 5. KBpedia 6. [Source](https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/classifications/australian-and-new-zealand-standard-research-classification-anzsrc/2020#data-downloads) 7. [structural-biology · GitHub Topics · GitHub](https://github.com/topics/structural-biology) 8. All Science Journal Classification Codes 9. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)