How well can simulation predict protein folding kinetics and thermodynamics?

Annu Rev Biophys Biomol Struct. 2005:34:43-69. doi: 10.1146/annurev.biophys.34.040204.144447.

Abstract

Simulation of protein folding has come a long way in five years. Notably, new quantitative comparisons with experiments for small, rapidly folding proteins have become possible. As the only way to validate simulation methodology, this achievement marks a significant advance. Here, we detail these recent achievements and ask whether simulations have indeed rendered quantitative predictions in several areas, including protein folding kinetics, thermodynamics, and physics-based methods for structure prediction. We conclude by looking to the future of such comparisons between simulations and experiments.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biophysics / methods*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Computers
  • Kinetics*
  • Models, Statistical
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Protein Folding*
  • Solvents / chemistry
  • Temperature
  • Time Factors
  • Water / chemistry

Substances

  • Solvents
  • Water