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 March 15 April 1 (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.

updated march 11, 2021