DescriptionEdit

Symmetry puzzles have one or more copies of a particular protein, that can interact with the protein itself. Everytime the coloured copy (or independent unit) of the protein is manipulated, the grey copies of the protein change in exactly the same way. While the copies can be thought of as mirror images, each copy of the protein can fold around and through each other.

The objective of Symmetry puzzles is to find the best way of folding the coloured copy of the protein, so that it binds together well with its grey copies.

There are currently 3 different types of Symmetry puzzles available in Foldit:

• Symmetric Dimer

A symmetry puzzle with only one copy.

• Symmetric Trimer

A symmetry puzzle with two copies, for a total of three units.

• Symmetric Dimer of Dimers

A symmetry puzzle with three copies, for a total of four units.

StrategiesEdit

Usually taking the shape of a helix. They can be contorted into many different shapes.

We will investigate the theoretical structures of the basic helix and how they interact.

When a helix forms it likes to twist into a right hand twist. A helix with a left hand twist is not a happy helix. When joined together freely into a bundle they will all twist together with a slight left hand twist. This is the same in the making of ropes and twine. This slight counter twist helps the strand hold together and not unravel. Now there can be exceptions, like being restrained by the loops on the ends, that may force the helix to deflect.

Being constructed of helices, it is best to keep them fairly straight and close together. If they become knotted or move far apart it is probably not a good thing.

Tweeking is important in getting the helix aligned properly. Orange in blue out.

Followed by lots of wiggles, shakes, and mutate.

Puzzle HistoryEdit

This is a list of symmetry puzzles that have featured on Foldit, starting from the most recent puzzle.

Puzzle 490: Symmetric Foldon Puzzle 1 - http://fold.it/portal/node/991245
Puzzle 479b: Beginner Symmetry Puzzle - http://fold.it/portal/node/991169
Puzzle 479: Beginner Symmetry Puzzle - http://fold.it/portal/node/991057

External LinksEdit

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oligomer - Oligomers
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protein_dimer - Protein Dimers
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protein_trimer - Protein Trimers
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protein_tetramer - Protein Tetramers