foldit

Foldit is a crowdsourcing computer game developed by the University of Washington that allows players to contribute to scientific research by folding proteins.

To play Foldit, you download and install the game, create an account, and then start solving puzzles by manipulating protein structures using various tools provided in the game.

The goal of Foldit is to fold protein structures into their most stable and optimal configurations. By doing so, players help researchers gain insights into protein folding, which can contribute to understanding diseases and developing new drugs.

No, prior scientific knowledge is not required to play Foldit. The game provides tutorials and guidance for beginners, allowing anyone with an interest in protein folding to participate.

Yes, Foldit supports collaboration among players through features like chat channels and group puzzles. You can work together with others to tackle complex problems and share strategies.

Foldit has had a significant scientific impact. Players have made valuable contributions to protein structure prediction, enzyme design, and other areas of research. Their discoveries have been published in scientific journals.

Yes, Foldit allows players to create their own puzzles using the foldit cookbook. This enables users to design and share unique challenges with the community.

While there are no monetary rewards, players can earn points, gain ranking on leaderboards, and receive recognition for their contributions to scientific research.

Currently, Foldit is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. It can be downloaded and installed from the official Foldit website.

You can stay updated with the latest news about Foldit by visiting the official Foldit website, participating in the Foldit community forums, and following the game's social media channels.