Illustrating the Invisible: Scientists Bring Proteins to Life Through Art and Storytelling.

In an ambitious fusion of science and storytelling, two researchers have translated the microscopic world of proteins into a visually captivating and accessible book for the public. Shahir Rizk, a protein engineer at Indiana University South Bend, and Maggie Fink, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Notre Dame, have spent the last five years writing and illustrating The Color of North: The Molecular Language of Proteins and the Future of Life, which was released on May 13.

For Rizk, the excitement of scientific discovery mirrors the joy of unwrapping gifts. “Going into the lab always feels like Christmas morning,” he said. His work involves engineering proteins to develop nanomaterials, biosensors, and therapies for genetic diseases. But beyond the lab bench, Rizk is equally enthusiastic about sharing science with the public.

This passion for outreach is shared by Fink, who often found herself explaining scientific ideas to non-scientist friends and family. The two met through their involvement in science communication projects, including a blog and podcast, and eventually teamed up to pursue a larger creative endeavor: a book that would introduce readers to proteins not just as food components but as dynamic, functional molecules essential to life.

“DNA and genes often take the spotlight,” Rizk noted, “but proteins have their own rich stories that deserve to be told.”

Fink, who had been taking a course in art and writing, began illustrating proteins with hand-drawn images. These early sketches evolved into a cornerstone of the book’s approach—pairing scientific content with engaging, modern-art-style illustrations. One image depicts a floppy protein shaped like a caterpillar, complete with alpha helices and beta sheets, while another features the structure of a Gila monster toxin with elegant curves and unstructured loops.

To bring their concept to publishers, the pair had to craft a detailed proposal, including a sample chapter and descriptions of similar works, highlighting what made theirs unique. Selecting which proteins to feature was a daunting task. “There are millions of proteins we could have chosen,” said Fink. They narrowed their focus by linking proteins to familiar human experiences, such as Alzheimer’s disease, which personally touched Fink’s family and provided a bridge into discussing the science behind the condition.

Despite their enthusiasm, early attempts to contact publishers directly yielded little success. They then turned to literary agents and eventually connected with Luba Ostashevsky of Ayesha Pande Literary. “Having an agent helped us understand what publishers really want in a proposal,” said Fink.

With Ostashevsky’s guidance, they revised and polished their materials over several months. Their work caught the attention of Harvard University Press, and editor Rachel Fields joined the project to help finalize the manuscript.

The writing process wasn’t without its hurdles. Juggling lab responsibilities and writing sessions, the two co-authors leaned on each other for support. “Sometimes you just have to imagine you’re writing to a friend,” Rizk advised, encouraging fellow scientists to shed ego and embrace the vulnerability of communicating complex topics in simple terms.

Unexpectedly, the book also underwent peer review, akin to an academic paper, ensuring factual accuracy while allowing for more creative expression. This process affirmed their commitment to scientific integrity without sacrificing readability or artistic flair.

The finished book features more than 50 proteins, ranging from those involved in fermentation and extreme temperature resistance to those implicated in disease and medical innovation. Still, Rizk emphasized that the goal wasn’t memorization but curiosity. “We hope readers walk away fascinated by the molecular machinery that powers life,” he said.

Now that their book is out in the world, Rizk and Fink hope it inspires both readers and fellow scientists. “We need more scientists telling their stories,” said Fink. “If someone wants to write a book, they should just start. It’s doable with the right support.”

Rizk echoed the sentiment, adding that in today’s world of misinformation, scientists have a vital role to play in public discourse. “The process is rewarding, even if it’s tough,” he said. “And the impact of clear, engaging science communication has never been more important.”

Source:https://www.the-scientist.com/penning-the-dynamic-lives-of-proteins-73003

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.