Unfold your world: Nature’s Molecular Wonders

Unfold Your World: Nature’s Molecular Wonders

embl.org/sepe EMBL Science Education and Public Engagement

5o

YEARS 1974–2024

About Unfold Your World Did you know that proteins in our bodies determine how we grow, learn and behave?

Or that many illnesses, from Alzheimer’s disease to cystic fibrosis, are caused by proteins mis-folding?

The Unfold Your World project is inspired by the fact that proteins fold in very particular ways, forming distinctive structures. Not only are these structures beautiful, they also play important roles in our bodies and in nature.

This vernissage party celebrates the more than 140 artworks we received from across Europe during the timeline of the project.

Take a look at all submissions in the online exhibition:

Publisher EMBL, 2024 Curation: SEPE/EMBL Design: Creative Team/EMBL Printer: Photolab/EMBL

About EMBL EMBL is Europe’s life sciences laboratory. We are an intergovernmental organisation supported by over 29 member states and operating across six sites in Europe. EMBL performs fundamental research in molecular biology, studying the story of life. Our research drives the development of new technology and methods in the life sciences, and we work to transfer this knowledge for the benefit of society.

Stellar Roots

by Borsilav D., Bulgaria Pixel art | 14–15 years old

In Borislav’s words…

I was inspired by a cool video about the ATP synthase, where I caught a tree-like structure.

From the scientific perspective, I’ve learned that ATP synthase is quite interesting, especially how closely it resembles a motor with magnets.

From the arts perspective, I’ve learned that the “blocking” technique is very useful.

Protein in focus: Cryo-EM structure of the mammalian E-state ATP synthase PDBe ID: 6J5J

ATP synthase is an enzyme found in the membranes of cells that helps produce ATP, the main energy currency of the cell. It works like a tiny motor, using energy from a flow of protons (tiny charged particles) to attach a phosphate group to ADP (adenosine diphosphate), creating ATP.

Science’s eye

by Mariq C., Bulgaria Drawing | 16–18 years old

In Mariq’s words…

I wanted to show the development of the human eye. I’ve learned analytical thinking, patience, attention, quick reactions, persistence and I understood a lot about the world and the things we use in our lives. From art I’ve learned precision, love, tenderness, emotionality, freedom, hard work and patience.

Protein in focus: pro-TGF-beta2 in complex with Nb9 PDBe ID: 8FXS

Pro-TGF-beta2 is a protein that plays a crucial role in the development of the eye, helping to regulate cell growth, tissue formation, and the maintenance of proper structure in the eye.

Serotonin receptor, bring us Joy!

By Maria P. & Ioanna P., Greece Mixed media, embroidery, writing | 14–15 years old

In Maria’s and Ioanna’s words…

As we had recently watched the movie “Inside out” we wondered if happiness was affected by a protein too. We searched on the internet and the PDBe about happiness and realized that there is indeed a protein that is involved! It is the serotonin receptor which is located on the cell membrane and binds to the chemical serotonin and that makes us feel happy. We were so excited about it that we decided to prepare a piece of art work based on what we had discovered.

Protein in focus: Human serotonin receptor PDBe ID: 7WC4

The human serotonin receptor is a type of protein found in the brain and other parts of the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood and emotions by receiving and transmitting signals from the neurotransmitter serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” chemical.

Habu

by Paris P., Greece Pencils and black pen ink drawing | 16–18 years old

In Paris’ words…

Since I am a fan of East Asian culture and interested in the Asian manga art style, I decided to make an artwork based on it. That’s why I chose a protein from the venom of the snake Trimeresurus flavoviridis in Japan, which is called anticoagulant protein Apo-Habu. The way the protein molecule folds up reminded me of the long body of the Asian dragon, which is well known from traditional East Asian artwork. So, I illustrated the a-helices of the two protein subunits as four dragons while the b-pleated sheets as the Trimeresurus flavoviridis snakes. In this way, I am happy to have combined the real snake with its mythical ‘relative’!

Protein in focus: Anticoagulant protein Apo-Habu IX-bp PDBe ID: 1X2W

Anticoagulant protein Apo-Habu is a specialised protein found in the venom of the habu snake that helps prevent blood from clotting by interfering with certain processes in the body’s clotting system.

Skin colors

by Anna Ú., Hungary Watercolors | 14–15 years old

In Anna’s words…

On Earth, our appearance, especially our outer skin colour, shows great diversity and richness. The scientific knowledge of this inspired me to research and to visually create my experiences and knowledge. The role of proteins in the body is extremely diverse. I have learned from my research, that hormone proteins can significantly impact our skin at different stages of life.

Protein in focus: hormone protein PDBe ID: 1HGU

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pituitary gland that helps to regulate our heart function, muscle and bone growth. Its levels are highest during childhood and adolescence, gradually declining as we age.

Collagen in the body

by Emese C., Hungary Drawing | 16–18 years old

In Emese’s words…

My inspiration for this piece was that collagen gives our skin its elasticity, so I wanted to capture that in a more surrealistic style. But I was also going for a kind of composition which resembles a scientific illustration.

Protein in focus: Collagen in the skin PDBe ID: 1K6F

Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the body that acts like a structural glue, helping to keep our skin firm, joints flexible, bones strong, and muscles overall health and youthful vitality.

The Charm of Medusa

by Vincenzo P., Italy Papier-mâché, acrylic paints | 14–15 years old

A note from Vincenzo’s teacher…

Through the choice of colours and the symbolism related to keratin K5 and K14, the student gained a greater understanding of the properties and roles of keratins in cellular structure and skin health. The mask represents a connection between art and mythology, allowing the student to explore and reflect on the figure of Medusa and her significance in a cultural context.

Protein in focus: Keratin PDBe ID: 6JFV

The crystal structure of the 2B-2B complex from keratins 5 and 14 (C367A mutant of K14) represents the interaction between specific regions of these two keratins, which are key structural proteins in epithelial cells.

Spidey’s Silky Secret

by Aurora Arresi C., Italy Ink on paper | 16–18 years old

In Aurora’s words……

I chose this protein because it’s found in the silk of the Trichonephila clavipes, a beautiful spider. I’ve loved spiders all my life and I’m always happy to learn new things about them! I’ve learned about the existence of the PDB archive and how to navigate it. I’ve learned how to interpret complex protein structures and mesh them with my own ideas to create a piece that truly represents my artistic sensibilities.

Protein in focus: Major ampullate spidroin 1 PDBe ID: 7WIO

Major ampullate spidroin 1 is a protein produced by certain spiders, playing a key role in the formation of their incredibly strong and flexible silk, specifically the silk used for the main structural threads of their webs, which helps them catch prey and provides a lifeline for the spider.

The Soul of a Lost Teenager

by Masa D. and Vojkan J., Serbia Watercolors | 16–18 years old

In Masa’s and Vojkan’s words…

To choose this protein, we were inspired by the death of our friend from school, who died in a traffic accident.

This protein is very important for differentiation and maturation of neurons. Also, during the work we thought about our friend (who died, as we were saying), which led us to the conclusion of how we should celebrate every day and enjoy the art of life.

Protein in focus: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor/ neurotrophin 3 heterodimer PDBe ID: 1BND

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) are proteins that help brain cells grow, survive, and connect with each other. BDNF is important for learning, memory, and overall brain health, while NT-3 supports the development and maintenance of the nervous system.

From One State to Another

by Maia S., United Kingdom 3D pen filament | 14–15 years old

In Maia’s words…

I chose ovalbumin because it’s the most abundant protein in egg whites, and enabled me to depict the common secondary structures, alpha helices and beta sheets. I also used quite a modern medium to produce the piece and I learnt a lot through trial and error to make the marks look organic yet still portraying the seemingly organised chaos of the natural structure.

Protein in focus: Ovalbumin PDBe ID: 1UHG

Ovalbumin, the main protein found in egg whites, is a key component that plays an important role in the texture and function of eggs in cooking and baking; it acts as a versatile binder, foam stabiliser, and gelling agent, helping to give structure to foods like soufflés.

Vector

by Sophie C., United Kingdom Acrylic Paint on MDF board | 16–18 years old

In Sophie’s words…

I did some work experience at a vets in Wales doing TB testing. This led me to research the disease which I found really interesting so I decided to make my piece around one of the proteins in the Mycobacterium bovis bacteria. I was especially interested in the relationship between badgers and cattle, and how the interspecies transmission impacts the spread of the disease.

Protein in focus: Superoxide dismutase PDBe ID: 7ALX

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) plays a crucial role in the survival of bacteria like Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It protects bacteria from oxidative stress.

Frontis nulla fides

by Gabija V., Lithuania Paper-mache | 14–15 years old

In Gabija’s words…

I chose this protein because its appearance greatly inspired me. In the beauty of this protein is hidden a deadly force.

Also, the ways this protein was used seemed interesting to me. I learned a lot about Ricin: its toxic nature and the ways it was used — for example, as castor oil.

Protein in focus: Ricin PDBe ID: 1RTC

Ricin is a highly toxic substance naturally found in the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis), which can cause severe harm to humans and animals even in very small doses, as it interferes with the body’s ability to make proteins.

Nemigos sukaustyta / Chained by Insomnia

by Emilija K., Lithuania Pencil and ink | 16–18 years old

In Emilija’s words…

I chose this protein because it correlates with human mental disorders, anxiety, and insomnia. I was intrigued by how this protein affects our mental health and emotional states, as well as what might happen when its function is disrupted.

Protein in focus: Human GABA-A receptor alpha1-beta2-gamma2 subtype in complex with GABA and flumazenil, conformation A PDBe ID: 6D6U

The GABA-A receptor is a protein found in the brain that acts like a gateway, helping to calm down nerve activity by allowing the chemical GABA to bind to it, which reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation, and can even help with sleep.

Gym rat

by Sofija G., Croatia Digital art: artificial intelligence | 16–18 years old

In Sofija’s words…

I chose Myosin II because it is important for understanding how muscles work. I am inspired by its role in movement and its ability to enable muscle contraction. I learned that myosin II enables muscle contraction and participates in processes such as cell division and intracellular transport.

Protein in focus: Myosin II PDBe ID: 2FXM

Myosin II is a type of protein found in muscle cells that helps muscles contract by using energy to pull on tiny fibers, allowing movements like walking, lifting, and even heartbeats to happen.

Helicase.zip

by Isabeau Eleonore S.R., Germany Mixed media: charcoal and acrylic paint | 16–18 years old

In Isabeau Eleonore’s words…

DNA helicase is a vital enzyme for DNA replication, making it essential for all cells. I learned about the molecular structure of DNA helicase and was impressed by the complexity of the enzyme’s structure and function. I learned how to accept and work around happy accidents when things didn’t go as planned. I also improved my skills when working with charcoal.

Protein in focus: DNA helicase PDBe ID: 2XSZ

Helicase is an enzyme that plays a role in the process of DNA replication and repair. It unwinds the doublestranded DNA, much like unzipping a zipper, so that each strand can be copied or used to fix errors, ensuring that our genetic information is accurately passed on during cell division and remains intact to support the proper functioning of our body’s cells.

Hepatitis Protein Project

by Vladyslav B. & Nazar K., Germany Mixed Media: half digital collage | 14–15 years old

In Vladyslav’s and Nazar’s words…

A widespread problem in the world is choosing this protein because viruses are popular. We also wanted to create something unique. In this project, we learned about the consequences of hepatitis if left untreated. We also learned what the hepatitis protein looks like. The visual approach of our project effectively conveys the seriousness of hepatitis.

Protein in focus: Hepatitis Core Protein PDBe ID: 7OD4

Hepatitis viruses are a group of viruses that primarily attack the liver, leading to inflammation and potentially causing serious health issues like liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer; they are categorised into several types—Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E—each of which spreads differently (through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids like blood).

Gyvybės šokis/The Dance of Life

by Deimantė M., Lithuania Graphic | 16–18 years old

In Deimantė’s words…

I chose this protein for its function in our bodies and the bodies of other mammals. The ability to physically feel others, to be able to touch or hug them is a critical part in our lives and it has a profound impact on our mental health. Whilst creating this piece, I became more competent in conveying the subject based on context. Furthermore, I improved my drawing abilities and tried out various materials.

Protein in focus: Piezo1 PDBe ID: 6BPZ

Piezo1 is a special protein found in the membranes of cells, acting like a highly sensitive pressure detector. It can sense mechanical forces, like pressure or stretch, in tissues throughout the body, and convert those physical sensations into electrical signals that our cells can understand.

The Purr-sistent Protein

by Nia-May T., United Kingdom Yarn (Crochet) and Stuffing | 16–18 years old

In Nia May’s words…

As someone with a cat allergy, I was curious to learn about what caused the allergic reaction in humans. After some research, I discovered that the protein (fel d 1) produced in the cat’s saliva, transfers to their fur during grooming.

I have learned that the helical structure of fel d 1 is primarily responsible for the asthma-like symptoms of the cat allergy.

As you will notice the protein is always present in each scene with the cats (hence the name of my submission).

Protein in focus: Fel d 1 – Cat Allergen PDBe ID: 1PUO

Fel d 1 is the primary allergen produced by cats, specifically found in their saliva, skin, and fur, which, when spread around the environment through shedding, can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals; this tiny protein can float in the air and settle on various surfaces, making it easily inhaled and causing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes and runny nose.

Find out more Get in touch We invite you to get in touch, to learn more about our activities and ways you can collaborate with us.

EMBL Science Education and Public Engagement EMBL Meyerhofstraße 1 69117 Heidelberg Germany Tel: +49 6221 387 8805 Mail: sepe@embl.de Website: embl.org/sepe

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