DEGRADATOR - a unique computer game created by Polish molecular biologists

Scientists from the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw have created a computer game that allows you to understand the fascinating world of processes occurring in the cell. In the DEGRADATOR game, we control the processes of eliminating abnormal proteins, which is crucial for the proper functioning of any organism - including humans.

Molecular biologists from the Laboratory of Protein Metabolism at the IIMCB, led by  Dr. Wojciech Pokrzywa, have decided to implement the concept of learning through play. The game DEGRADATOR allows players to explore the mechanisms of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, which destroys proteins in cells. As the game progresses, we also discover innovative therapies based on PROTAC (PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera) compounds. These novel methods use the ubiquitin-proteasome mechanism to effectively eliminate pathogenic proteins, such as in cancer diseases.

During the gameplay, we take on the role of an E3 ubiquitin ligase - a key enzyme responsible for identifying other proteins (substrates) and initiating their ubiquitination, so that the protein in question is targeted for degradation. We also learn about the E2 enzyme, its functioning and how the proteasome - the cellular recycling center - works, as well as what relationship it has with ubiquitin. We can also gain various superpowers, for example by grabbing ATP or an inhibitor of the deubiquitinating enzyme. The knowledge acquired during successive levels of gameplay is consolidated through short quizzes.

- The game was created to introduce the key molecular mechanisms of protein degradation in an attractive and accessible way, says Natalia Szulc, a PhD student in the Laboratory of Protein Metabolism. - The human cell is capable of producing up to about 20,000 different proteins. Maintaining their balance is crucial and requires efficient degradation methods. Each protein also has a specific lifespan in the cell - from a few minutes to many years. Misfolded proteins or those containing inappropriate amino acids (often due to mutations) must be removed timely and efficiently. This is essential for the proper functioning not only of a single cell, but of the entire organism," explains Natalia Szulc.

The uniqueness of the DEGRADATOR game is underscored by a rich set of educational materials prepared by scientists from the IIMCB. These include, among others, biology lesson plans adapted for youth of various ages, a multimedia presentation, the Great Encyclopedia of Protein Degradation, quizzes, and a comic that illustrates how some viruses, such as HIV, utilize the host cell's ubiquitin-proteasome system for their effective replication. The game is also available in English.

The team of scientists led by Dr. Wojciech Pokrzywa was honored in February 2024 with the Minister of Science Award for significant scientific achievements that open new horizons in understanding key cellular processes. The central focus of the team is the protein degradation pathway, to which the unique computer game DEGRADATOR and  a complete set of educational materials are dedicated.

Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkpaVYW0Maw

Play DEGRADATOR and explore additional materials: https://degradator-game.com/

This educational computer game was funded in Poland in part by the Polish State Budget, under Ministry of Education and Science program entitled the Social Responsibility of Science - grant number SONP/SP/546507/2022; funded amount: 101 706 PLN; total grant value: 115 756 PLN.