Protein Structure — Function Relationship

Although many pursue understanding of the relationship between protein structure and function for the thrill of pure science, the pay-off in a much broader sense is the ability to manipulate the Earth's chemistry and biology to improve the quality of life for mankind. Immediately goals of this area of research include identification of the life-supporting functions of proteins, and the fundamental forces that facilitate these functions. Upon reaching these goals, we shall have the understanding to direct and the tools required to implement changes that will dramatically improve the quality of life. For example, under­ standing the chemical mechanism of diseases will facilitate development of new therapeutic drugs. Likewise, understanding of chemical mechanisms of plant growth will be used with biotechnology to improve food production under adverse climatic conditions. The challenge to understand details of protein structure/function relationships is enormous and requires an international effort for success. To direct the chemistry and biology of our environment in a positive sense will require efforts from bright, imaginative scientists located throughout the world. Although the emergence of FAX, e-mail, and the World Wide Web has revolutionized international communication, there remains a need for scientists located in distant parts of the world to occasionally meet face to face.