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Nov 25, 2015 | By Tess

At 3Ders, we often write about the ways in which 3D printing technology has contributed to the fields of both science and design, but it is not everyday that we see these two fields so completely enmeshed with one another. MolToys, a company known for its 3D molecular models, has recently done so by designing 3D printed jewelry beads that resemble the molecular compositions of amino acids.

MolToys was founded in 2008 by Jon Huntoon and Graham Johnson, who both sought to engage students in the sciences by effectively creating a more hands on, practical approach to learning about molecules. Their molecular models have been used in a variety of ways: for education purposes in school and university science departments, for training purposes in pharmaceutical and biotech companies, they are used by physicians to explain and demonstrate to patients the diseases they have, and by scientists to show new discoveries they have made. As mentioned, however, it is now not only possible to learn and use the 3D molecular models for demonstrations, but it is possible to adorn yourself in them.

The amino acid beads from which necklaces, bracelets, earrings or other jewelry can be made have been scaled up to measure 1-2 centimeters in length effectively making them 20 million times the actual size of a real amino acid. Additionally, because amino acids are often known by their single-letter abbreviations (Proline can be recognized as simply P) the beads can be used to spell out secret messages, initials, or names.

 When MolToys first began, the molecular models were made using an in-house 3D printer, but as the company expanded MolToys teamed up with 3D printing service Shapeways, which took over the 3D printing production.

As explained on the MolToys website, “Our models are made using x-ray crystallographic data from published science articles. These data points contain the XYZ coordinates of various atoms that compose a protein’s structure and shape. We use this structural data along with 3D software to build our molecular models.” Once the molecular models have been designed they are sent to be 3D printed.

MolToys also provide other services such as custom 3D models. That is, if your favorite molecule or protein is not already available on MolToys’ online store, they can design and create a 3D printed model of it based off of a Protein Data Bank (PDB) ID. The company can also accommodate many 3D file formats, such as vrml and stl, and can additively manufacture the models in either full color sandstone or monochrome nylon plastic.

Also, if you happen to be looking for a Christmas gift for a fellow science enthusiast, MolToys have introduced a festive and charming “Antibody ornament”, a 3D printed scaled up model of an antibody that can be made in a variety of colors and hung up on your Christmas tree.

If you, like us, are excited by the merging worlds of science and design, be sure to check out MolToys webpage as well as their Shapeways store.

 

 

Posted in 3D Printing Application

 

 

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