Initially, structural biologists often ignored or discarded data on disordered proteins because they did not fit traditional models, but this perspective is shifting.

Kejia Wu, a co-lead author, emphasized the creative and unconventional approaches used to tackle the challenges posed by disordered proteins, highlighting the potential for innovative solutions.

This research marks a significant shift in understanding protein function, emphasizing that structure is not the sole determinant of a protein's role in biology.

These findings showcase the potential of this technology to develop new treatments for complex diseases involving disordered proteins.

Researchers at the University of Washington, led by the team that developed a library of modular protein parts, have created custom proteins capable of targeting specific amino acid sequences in these shapeshifting proteins.

Recent breakthroughs reveal that approximately half of human proteins are intrinsically disordered, lacking fixed structures, which has historically challenged scientists.

Disordered proteins are a significant portion of eukaryotic proteins, with estimates suggesting over 50%, and they play crucial roles in biological processes.

Their innovative AI-driven approach has successfully designed proteins that can bind to disordered proteins, turning them into promising therapeutic targets.

Laboratory tests demonstrated a 91% success rate, with the designed proteins binding to 39 of 43 targets, including blocking pain signals and dissolving protein clumps linked to type 2 diabetes.

The groundbreaking research is detailed in two publications—one in the journal Science and another as a preprint—and the open-source software developed is accessible globally for further research.

Wu also noted that the fluidity of disordered proteins offers unique opportunities for innovative targeting strategies, despite their complexity.

Under the leadership of Nobel laureate David Baker, the team has employed AI techniques to transform the targeting of these previously 'undruggable' disordered proteins into viable drug development opportunities.