Ribosomes

This large ribosome model communicates the multi-domain structure of a eukaryotic ribosome. The RNA chains (white and pink) are shown in the phosphate backbone display format and the protein chains (gray) are shown in the alpha carbon display format. Embedded magnets allow the large and small ribosomal subunits to separate, as well as the three tRNA (red, teal and green) to be removed and viewed individually.

This trophy ribosome model was commissioned for the Nobel Prize laureate Venki Ramakrishnan and is currently on display at the entrance to the Cambridge Laboratory of Molecular Biology. The model communicates the overall structure of a eukaryotic ribosome and how the large (pink) and small (white) ribosomal subunits dock.

This large ribosome model was designed in collaboration with the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm, Sweden, and was used as part of the museum’s traveling exhibit. The large ribosomal subunit (purple) and small ribosomal subunit (red and orange) are shown in the backbone display format. 

This collection of ribosome models was developed in collaboration with the Nobel Prize laureate Tom Steitz to communicate his significant work determining the structure of eukaryotic ribosomes. The models are shown in spacefill display format and colored by protein and RNA domain.