SCOP, an acronym for "Sequence Classification of Proteins," refers to a hierarchical classification scheme used in bioinformatics and protein structure prediction. It is a protein database that classifies protein domains based on their structural and evolutionary relationships.
SCOP provides a systematic organization of proteins into hierarchical levels called classes, folds, superfamilies, and families. These classifications are based on the structural similarity of protein domains and their evolutionary relationships inferred from sequence information. Protein domains are defined as compact units of protein structure that can function independently. The SCOP database contains information about the structural and functional characteristics of these protein domains.
At the highest level, SCOP classifies proteins into classes, which represent the broadest level of protein structural organization. Classes are further divided into folds, which represent distinct structural motifs found in proteins. Folds are then divided into superfamilies, which are groups of protein domains that share similar tertiary structures and evolutionary relationships. Finally, protein families represent the most specific level of classification, consisting of proteins with highly similar structures and functions.
SCOP provides a valuable resource for studying protein structure, function, and evolution. It aids in understanding the relationships between different proteins and can be used for protein structure prediction, protein design, and drug discovery. By organizing proteins into a hierarchical classification scheme, SCOP facilitates the identification of common structural motifs and evolutionary relationships among proteins, thus enabling researchers to infer important functional and evolutionary information.
