Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Rotamer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔄
Add to dictionary

rotamer

[ˈroʊtəmər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

conformational analysis

A rotamer is a specific conformation of a molecule, typically a protein, resulting from the rotation of specific bonds. Rotamers are important in understanding the structure and function of biomolecules.

Synonyms

conformation, conformer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
rotamer

Used in the context of chemistry and molecular biology to describe one of the possible spatial arrangements of atoms in a molecule that can be interconverted by rotation around a single bond.

  • Scientists studied the different rotamers to understand the molecule's behavior better.
  • The protein's function can change depending on the rotamer it adopts.
conformer

Refers to any of the spatial arrangements that a molecule can adopt due to rotation around single bonds. It is often used in discussions of molecular flexibility and energy states.

  • The molecule exists in multiple conformers, each with different energies.
  • By analyzing the conformers, researchers can predict the most stable structure.
conformation

Used in chemistry and biology to describe the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule that can be interconverted by rotations around single bonds without breaking any bonds.

  • The drug's conformation is crucial for its biological activity.
  • Different conformations of the enzyme can affect its binding with substrates.

Examples of usage

  • The rotamer of a side chain in a protein can affect its interactions with other molecules.
  • Scientists use computational methods to predict the most stable rotamers of a molecule.
  • Understanding rotamers is crucial for drug design and molecular modeling.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Rotamers are crucial in chemistry and biochemistry since their different shapes can affect how molecules interact, especially in drugs.
  • Molecular dynamics simulations often consider rotamers to predict how proteins fold and function in biological systems.
  • The energy differences among rotamers help chemists understand molecular stability and reactivity.

Applications

  • In pharmaceutical design, identifying the most stable rotamer of a drug molecule can lead to improvements in effectiveness and reduced side effects.
  • Understanding rotamers is essential for predicting the behavior of enzymes and biochemical reactions.

Psychology

  • The concept of flexibility in rotamers parallels human psychological flexibility, where adapting to new shapes or situations can lead to better outcomes.
  • Just like how rotamers can alternate shapes, individuals can find different solutions or ways of thinking in problem-solving.

Literature

  • In science fiction, authors may use the concept of molecular rotamers as an analogy for transformation or adaptability in characters.
  • Rotameric structures often appear in poems or novels that reflect themes of change and fluidity.

Origin of 'rotamer'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'rotamer' comes from 'rotate' and 'isomer', referring to how these molecular forms are related by rotation.
  • First used in the scientific literature in the 20th century, the term highlights the importance of molecular shape in chemistry.

The term 'rotamer' originated in the field of conformational analysis, which studies the different spatial arrangements of atoms in molecules. It was first introduced in the 1960s as a way to describe the various conformations that molecules can adopt due to the rotation of specific bonds. Rotamers play a significant role in structural biology, especially in understanding the flexibility and dynamics of biomolecules.