Byron's Bender
|
|
|
Byron's Bender wire model of the backbone trace of the I domain of CD11a (from 1lfa), an alpha/beta domain of a leukocyte integrin adhesion molecule. Alpha helices are decorated with red pipe cleaners, while beta strands are decorated yellow. Model generously constructed by Tim Herman in 1997. |
Byron's Bender[1][2] is a machine designed to bend wire into the backbone trace of a protein model. Wire is advanced in fixed-length increments, representing the distances between alpha-carbon atoms. A dihedral angle is then set on dials, and a lever is pulled to bend the wire to the specified angle. Often, the emerging wire model collides with the machine. Then, the wire is cut, and later fastened end to end with a small metal sleeve.