Molecular Modeling

Research Institutions and pharmaceutical companies involved in drug research and development, and Educational Institutions teaching the function and interaction of proteins and drugs on the molecular level, have a clear need for molecular models in real physical space.

Challenge

Visualization and understanding of the geometry of and interaction between complex molecules is extremely difficult using 3D visualization or renderings. According to Art Olsen at the Scripps Institute, “Chemistry is about shape and geometry. To physically interact in real space with molecules provides complete information and new insights. Leading researchers that have been working with a protein or molecule for ten years will immediately learn something new when they hold the molecule in their hand.”

Solution

• Full Color Models - The Z Corp. 3D Printer is the only technology that can create full color models from digital data, representing electrical charge or atomic composition in full color.
• Rubberized Parts - The system can create parts that can be infiltrated with resin to simulate the qualities of rubber. This makes it possible to produce molecular models that can wrap around each other and accurately represent the interaction in physical space.
• Real Space Interaction - A 3D printer quickly and inexpensively produces dozens of iterations of molecules that can then be physically manipulated to help understand their interaction. The high speed and cost-effectiveness of the System makes it possible to have 3D physical space be a routine working medium.
• Hybridized Models for Process Visualization and Training - Z Corp. parts can be combined with other elements and inserts to provide a complete picture of the behavior of the molecule being studied. For example, a DNA strand can be printed with magnets inserted to demonstrate the unzipping and replication sequence in very clear physical detail. This hands-on understanding is critical to a fast and complete learning process.