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Crystallography in Action: Understanding Adalimumab

Modern medicines such as adalimumab (pictured above)—a monoclonal antibody used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and other autoimmune disorders—are made possible by our ability to understand biological structures at the atomic level.

Adalimumab works by binding to tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein that plays a central role in inflammation. Determining the three-dimensional structures of antibodies, TNF-α, and the complexes they form has been made possible through crystallographic techniques. By revealing how these molecules interact, crystallography provides the structural insights needed to develop therapies that can precisely target disease-causing pathways while minimizing effects on healthy tissues.

 Crystallographic Data 
The molecular structure shown here is based on crystallographic studies of adalimumab's antigen-binding region (Fab fragment), which have revealed how the antibody recognizes its target at the atomic level. We acknowledge and thank the scientists who contributed these structural data to the Protein Data Bank (PDB), an essential global archive that supports research, education, and innovation in structural science.

PDB ID: 4NYL (Adalimumab Fab fragment)

PDB ID: 3WD5 (Adalimumab Fab complexed with human TNF\(\alpha \))
 

Today, structural biology and crystallography remain essential tools in the discovery and improvement of biopharmaceuticals. From understanding protein function to guiding the design of next-generation therapeutics, crystallography continues to transform medicine and improve lives around the world.

If your work involves crystallography, structural science, diffraction, crystal growth, or related disciplines, we invite you to become part of the ACA. Join a vibrant community of researchers, educators, students, and industry professionals dedicated to advancing crystallography through collaboration, education, advocacy, and scientific exchange. Together, we are shaping the future of structural science.

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Looking Ahead: ACA Annual Meetings Through 2029

The American Crystallographic Association is excited to announce the locations of our next three annual meetings. We look forward to bringing the crystallographic community together in outstanding destinations across North America, each offering unique opportunities for scientific exchange, collaboration, and networking.

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Join the Global Crystallography Community at IUCr2026

Join crystallographers and structural scientists from around the world at IUCr2026, taking place August 11–18, 2026, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. With an exceptional scientific program featuring 140 microsymposia, workshops, poster sessions, exhibits, and networking events, IUCr2026 promises to be a landmark gathering for the global crystallographic community.

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Visit the IUCr2026 website for registration, housing information, and the latest Congress updates. We look forward to welcoming you to Calgary this August!

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