Fourteenth International Conference on e-Learning & Innovative Pedagogies

Abstract

Ribosomes are complex molecular machines that directly translate the genetic information encoded by messenger RNA (mRNA) into the twenty amino acid code for proteins. The structure of the ribosome contains both ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and ribosomal proteins where the latter stabilizes the overall ribosomal structure. Recent research indicates that ribosomal proteins may have roles beyond ribosome structural scaffolding. This project focuses on generating alternative learning modalities to help undergraduate learners in introductory molecular biology courses visualize and understand the extra-ribosomal functions of these proteins. We created a 3D animation that highlights how the molecular structure and interactions of certain ribosomal proteins permit them to serve dual roles as both structural scaffolds and cell-cycle regulators. Specifically, we highlight the altered degradation of p53 tumour suppressor protein by the direct interaction of mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) with ribosomal proteins. In addition, we touch upon the clinical consequences of improper ribosomal assembly leading to an imbalance between the dual roles for these ribosomal proteins. We anticipate that this 3D animation will facilitate student learning and understanding of visual literacy in the context of molecular biology and ribosomal proteins.