Comparing transmembrane protein structures with ATOLL

The 3D structure of transmembrane helices plays a key role in the function of membrane proteins. While visual inspection can usually discern the distinctive features of a helix bundle, simply translating them into a 2D diagram can be difficult. ATOLL (Aligned Transmembrane dOmains Layout fLattening) projects the helix bundle onto the lipid bilayer plane, thereby facilitating the comparison of different structures of the same membrane protein or structures of different membrane proteins.

Automated summary

The 3D structure of transmembrane helices is crucial for the function of membrane proteins. ATOLL allows for the projection of helix bundles onto the lipid bilayer plane, facilitating the comparison of different structures of membrane proteins.