Naturally occurring proteins are formed through an organization of modules, or domains, that dictates their structures and functions. We can create new proteins to have desired properties by choosing the combination of modules we use. Among the list of "parts" available to a protein designer are domains that perform structural, enzymatic, anchoring, and transport functions. Perhaps the best-studied type of domain is the multistranded coiled-coil. Using this domain, construct a protein that has a novel function. You might, for example, design the simplest protein that connects the nucleus to the cell membrane. The basic design would call for a long protein that is anchored at either end to the plasma and nuclear membranes. For a "parts" list of domains, including the coiled-coil, please see the following Web site on the structural classification of proteins:

http://scop.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/scop/