Molecular Models of Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins

A set of accurate scale models has been developed for use in studies of the structures of amino acids, peptides, and proteins. Models representing atoms or groups of atoms built from hard wood to the scale 1 in.=1A are connected by a clamping device which maintains desired molecular configurations. These accurate models have been used as substitutes for calculation in investigations of the probable configuration of the polypeptide chain in proteins. Analogous models constructed of rubber-like plastic to the scale 1 in.=2A and connected by snap fasteners are designed for qualitative studies of protein structure.