What is a 'seesaw protein' that switches functions by changing shape?
Phys.org
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Inspired by the mechanical simplicity of a seesaw—where one side rises as the other falls—scientists have developed a groundbreaking artificial protein called the "seesaw protein." This innovative creation mimics the seesaw mechanism at the molecular level, enabling a single molecule to switch between two distinct functions by altering its shape. The concept challenges traditional views of proteins, which typically perform one specific role in biological systems, and opens doors to new possibilities in materials science and medicine.
The seesaw protein's unique ability to toggle between roles stems from its dynamic structure. By reconfiguring its shape, the protein can bind to different molecules
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/20/2026