Ramachandran plot

The Ramachandran plot is a graphical representation used in biochemistry to visualize the conformations of amino acids in proteins. It maps the angles of two specific bonds in the protein backbone, called phi (φ) and psi (ψ) angles. By plotting these angles, scientists can identify which conformations are energetically favorable, helping to predict protein structure. The plot reveals regions where the backbone can adopt stable configurations, ultimately assisting researchers in understanding protein folding and function, which is crucial for drug design and understanding various diseases.