Print a Protein! (Updated Nov 2019)

thingiverse

I randomly picked and studied a putative protein named "Carl," which I had later discovered while watching a lot of Walking Dead at the time... Using a variety of software (Uniport, Swiss-Model, Chimera, MeshLab) I was able to convert Carl's amino acid sequence into a 3D model and uncover some cool properties with the protein. Feel free to message me if you want to learn how to do this! I plan on turning this into an educational model to teach those interested in taking an amino acid sequence and turning it into 3D models. Holding a 3D model of Carl helped me understand more about the protein. ### SUPPORTS & MODEL ORIENTATION If using supports, be prepared for a lot of cleaning up and smoothing needed in all of the crevices. Also, consider rotating the model in your 3D printer's software to optimize a better print time and reduce the number of supports needed. ### POLYGON REDUCTION I significantly reduced the polygons in Carl's model. There were tens of thousands of polygons in the original model so I reduced it down to approximately 7,500 polygons. ### BOM Print the following: (1) Part 1 (red) (1) Part 2 (gold) (2) Dowel ### ABS FILAMENT Try printing Carl's model in ABS and do an acetone post-process for a nice finish! ## UPDATES 11-27-19 I increased the mesh to incorporate more polygons (~85,000), which generates a smoother model. The model is split into two parts for easier printing and can glue together. I would like to add a dowel into the center of Carl's model to assist with lining up the two sides quicker.