Fungi Forums

Miscellaneous => General Chat => Topic started by: Luigison on September 25, 2011, 08:25:26 PM

Title: Gamers Needed for Science
Post by: Luigison on September 25, 2011, 08:25:26 PM

The University of Washington game called FOLDIT is a sort of “Tetris on steroids,” but the puzzles solved by gamers may help researchers discover and develop new medications.  A recent discovery (http://www.nature.com/nsmb/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nsmb.2119.html) by games may lead to a cure for AIDS.  Don't waste your time gaming; Game for Science!

Source:  http://fold.it/portal/
Solve Puzzles for Science:  http://fold.it/portal/node/988864
The Science:  http://fold.it/portal/info/science

Title: Re: Gamers Needed for Science
Post by: ShadowBrain on September 26, 2011, 02:01:32 PM

Well, seeing as I'll be attending in a few days, I might as well look into it.

Title: Re: Gamers Needed for Science
Post by: Luigison on October 07, 2011, 06:18:41 PM

Has anyone else "played" protein folding?  In years past I used it as part of my curriculum in biochemistry, but now that I'm teaching straight chemistry honors I don't think I can justify it for a classroom activity.  Regardless I may still be able to use it as an after state testing or homework activity under an extension objective.  Still, I fold.it for fun from time to time.  I also search for galaxies and disease cures for fun so I'm probably not your typical gamer anyway.  Anyone else?   

Title: Re: Gamers Needed for Science
Post by: Luigison on October 09, 2011, 05:08:05 PM

On a similar note I just came across http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/71/Domain_organization_of_PKS_of_Rapamycin_and_biosynthetic_intermediates.gif and instantly pictured a 2D Metroid like game. 

Back on topic:  Would anyone here be interested in a protein folding game/contest on the Fungi Forums or be willing to offer some prizes? 

And related: Does anyone else here use BOINC?