Using x-ray diffraction data collected on Beam Line 9-2 at SSRL, and other beam lines at the ESRF and BNL, scientists at The Salk Institute for Biological Studies discovered the three-dimensional structure of a protein that bacteria use to make biologically active compounds. By effectively engineering this protein, scientists may be able to create new drugs with therapeutic properties. The bacterial protein, known as Orf2, contains a previously unknown structure shaped like a barrel. "Looking at the protein's structure is like opening up a clock and understanding how all the parts fit together and work in unison," said Joseph Noel, co-author of a June 16 Nature publication on the research. Orf2 is one of a small number in a recently isolated family of proteins that create compounds with anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties. "We currently use the protein as a surrogate chemist, allowing it to catalyze chemical reactions that would be difficult or impossible to do with traditional chemistry," said Noel. This allows the researchers to slightly modify existing chemicals, which may lead them to discover new drugs. "We hope to use and engineer the protein to create novel compounds," said co-investigator Stéphane Richard.