Major
Biological Sciences
Minor(s)
Chemistry
Advisor
Cho, Bongsup
Advisor Department
Pharmacy Practice (PHP)
Advisor
Gregory, Steven
Advisor Department
Cell and Molecular Biology
Date
5-2025
Keywords
ribosome; 3D printing; molecular visualization
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.
Abstract
Sometimes conveying research can be difficult through two-dimension models. In my project, I aimed to highlight the significance of three-dimensional visualization in science, thereby enhancing the understanding of complex biomedical concepts. Through my work in Dr. Steven Gregory’s lab, I have been studying the ribosome – the macromolecular machine that utilizes messenger RNA and transfer RNA to link together amino acids thereby synthesizing proteins. Proteins are critical for most processes that occur within every cell. I specifically focus on the interactions between ribosomal proteins and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) at the peptidyl transferase center – the active site where amino acids are linked together. The ribosome is about two-thirds rRNA and one-third protein, where rRNA performs catalytic functions and the proteins provide structural support.
To help explain the significance of my research and the mutations I am introducing, I generated and printed visual models that make these molecular processes more accessible and intuitive. Visualization tools have long played a crucial role in the scientific community, and I aimed to contribute by designing clear and compelling models that highlight the key aspects of the ribosome’s function. Throughout this process, I learned how to use the molecular visualization program ChimeraX, which allowed me to manipulate molecular presentations in ways that enhance clarity and mechanistic insight. This process taught me how to emphasize critical structural elements, avoid visual clutter, and create models that are both scientifically accurate and visually engaging. This project taught me how to efficiently create three-dimensional models to help visually explain my research.