Module 10: The Assembler

Quaternary Structure

Design multi-chain protein complexes with precise control over interfaces and symmetry.

• Explain the advantages a protein gains by assembling from several chains
• Identify cyclic and dihedral symmetry, and use one designed chain plus a symmetry operation to generate an assembly
• Design an inter-chain interface with adequate buried surface area, contacts and shape complementarity
• Read AlphaFold-Multimer output correctly: ipTM, cross-chain PAE, and the checks for unintended oligomeric states
• Take a symmetric assembly from symmetry choice through interface design to validation