Chaperone protein

Molecular model from X-ray diffraction data (PDB ID: 1aon) of a chaperone protein viewed from the side (upper) and viewed from below (lower). After protein synthesis is complete, most protein chains spontaneously fold into their final 3D structure however some proteins do not and need assistance, for example during cell stress. Chaperone proteins guide other proteins along the proper pathways for folding. Unfolded proteins may enter the cavity of the chaperone and fold up inside. Width of image is approximately 140 nm.