Announcing the 2021 Ligand Model Challenge

February 1, 2021: Our next model challenge launches today: the 2021 EMDataResource Ligand Model Challenge. The task for modeler teams in this round is to optimize reference models against selected target maps containing protein or protein+RNA, ligands, ions and solvent (1.9-2.5 Å resolution range). 

 

The three targets are β-Galactosidase (1.9 Å), SARS-CoV-2 Polymerase/remdesivir (2.5 Å), and SARS-CoV-2 ORF3a putative ion channel in nano disc (2.1 Å). Evaluation/model comparison in this round will strongly focus on the ligands and their local environment, and will include additional ligand-specific assessments.

 

The deadline for submission of completed models is April 1 March 15 (3 PM US Eastern). All interested in participating should fill out the registration form.

 

In preparation for the evaluation phase of the Challenge, we welcome recommendations from the structural biology community regarding ligand-specific evaluation tools. Please send suggestions to challenges@emdataresource.org.