Gamers model retroviral protease, that had baffled scientists for a decade, in just three weeks.
Video (geeks) game enthusiasts has solved a question about an AIDS-related enzyme that has long stumped virologists.
“Gamers Solve HIV Puzzle
Players of the online game Foldit have helped discover the structure of an enzyme that had the scientific community stumped for a decade, representing a significant step forward in attempts to cure retroviral diseases like AIDS. The enzyme, a Mason-Pfizer monkey virus (MPMV) retroviral protease, was accurately modeled by Foldit players in just three weeks, and opens the door to development of antiretroviral drugs. Foldit makes use of players' 3D puzzle-solving abilities and competitive nature to solve problems that computers alone have been unable to do. A report, published by the University Of Washington and crediting gamers as well as researchers, says the discovery "provides new insights for the design of antiretroviral drugs."
Could this be the long-sought answer to the riddle that will eventually facilitate the cure for HIV? Let’s hope so and we are all thankful to those geek game guys.
SOURCE: http://www.next-gen.biz/news/foldit-players-solve-aids-puzzle
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