Ramachandran map

A Ramachandran map is a visual tool used in structural biology to analyze the angles between amino acids in a protein. It plots the two key angles—phi and psi—that describe how the protein chain twists and folds. By examining this map, scientists can determine which conformations are physically possible and stable, helping to validate or predict the protein's three-dimensional structure. Essentially, it helps researchers understand the preferred shapes proteins can adopt based on their backbone angles, ensuring the structure aligns with known physical and chemical constraints.