# Structural biology meets typography: using protein structures to inspire creative expression and connect diverse audiences

## TL;DR

This paper explores how protein structures can inspire creative typography to engage diverse audiences and promote interdisciplinary collaboration.

## Contribution

The novel integration of structural biology with typography through a 36 Days of Type design project.

## Key findings

- 3D molecular models were stylized and shared on social media, engaging a diverse audience.
- The project influenced the VIZBI 2025 conference logo design and was presented at VIZBI 2024.
- It highlights the role of visual arts in enhancing scientific literacy and interdisciplinary collaboration.

## Abstract

Proteins are complex molecular machines with specific structures that determine their function. Advances in structural bioinformatics and visualization have expanded access to molecular data, most notably through the Protein Data Bank (PDB). This perspective explores the intersection between structural biology and typography, integrating a protein alphabet with the 36 Days of Type design project. Using ChimeraX, Blender and Molecular Nodes, 3D molecular models were processed, stylized, and shared on social media under the #36daysoftype hashtag, which led to engagement across a diverse audience. This work was also presented at VIZBI 2024 conference and influenced the VIZBI 2025 conference logo design. This project frames the role of scientific illustration and visual arts in connecting disciplines, boosting public engagement, and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, while also inspiring future applications like biology-inspired typography to enhance scientific literacy.