Emerging Directions in Protein Structure and Dynamics Vol 1

In recent years, the study of protein structure and dynamics has undergone a profound transformation. The integration of advanced biophysical techniques, computational modeling, and novel experimental approaches has shifted the field’s perspective from static representations to a nuanced appreciation of protein flexibility and adaptability. This dynamic view is crucial for deciphering the molecular mechanisms behind biological function, regulation, and disease. As research evolves, the field continues to pivot toward approaches that capture the complexity of protein motions and their far-reaching effects on cellular systems.

This Research Topic seeks to highlight significant developments and emerging paradigms in the study of protein structure and dynamics. By assembling contributions from a broad range of biophysical and computational disciplines, the section aims to deepen understanding of how proteins’ structural diversity and dynamic behavior influence biological activity and pathophysiology. The collection gives special attention to research that goes beyond static models, showcasing methods and discoveries that reveal the critical importance of protein motion in shaping biological outcomes.

The section welcomes manuscripts addressing diverse aspects of protein structure and dynamics, including, but not limited to:

- Allosteric mechanisms and long-range communication
- Conformational ensembles and intrinsically disordered proteins
- Protein folding, misfolding, and aggregation pathways
- Amyloidogenic proteins and related disease mechanisms
- Post-translational modifications and functional consequences
- Supramolecular complexes and molecular recognition
- Innovations in protein engineering and drug design
- Biophysical studies linking protein dynamics to human disease

Both original research and review articles are invited, along with methodological papers introducing new experimental, computational, or integrative approaches to studying protein dynamics. Multidisciplinary research that bridges traditional boundaries or challenges current paradigms is especially encouraged.

By fostering the exchange of novel perspectives and methodological advances, this Research Topic aims to accelerate progress and inspire new directions in the evolving field of protein structure and dynamics.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: protein dynamics, conformational flexibility, allostery, biophysical methods, protein misfolding

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.