About the project

Exploring the 3D Genome: Twist, Fold, Solve

Our goal is to ignite interest in non-scientists in learning about three-dimensional (3D) chromosomal structure.

DNA inside your cells is not simply a long, straight molecule. It folds into complex three-dimensional structures, and this spatial organization plays a critical role in gene regulation, cell behavior, and genome function. Understanding chromosome architecture and 3D genome organization remains a major challenge in modern genomics and computational biology.

In this interactive scientific visualization game, you will work with fragments of a 3D chromosome along with Hi-C inspired data-driven clues that describe how different genomic regions should relate to one another. Your task is to reposition and assemble these regions until the chromosome achieves its correct structural configuration through spatial reasoning and interactive exploration.

3DChromoTwist combines gamification, bioinformatics education, and human-computer interaction principles to create a serious game for learning chromosome reconstruction, chromatin organization, and spatial genomics. In addition to its educational role, the platform also serves as a foundation for future research in interactive and human-guided approaches to genome structure reconstruction and scientific visualization.

The structures used in the game are based on real experimental data, providing an authentic and educational experience.

Illustration of a DNA double helix showing three-dimensional structure

Demo

3DChromoTwist Video Tutorial

If the video doesn’t load here, you can watch it on YouTube.

Team

Meet the people behind 3DChromoTwist.

Oluwatosin Oluwadare

Oluwatosin Oluwadare

Principal Investigator (PI) and Project Lead

Fascinated by the complexity of 3D genome structure and spatial organization.

Cory Haltinner

Cory Haltinner

Artist and Design direction

A game developer and Professor of game art and design.

Camden McCoy

Camden McCoy

Developer

A senior at the University of North Texas. I'm interested in game development and like to make games in my free time.

Ariel Bergamini

Ariel Bergamini

Developer

A senior Game Design student interested in exploring the intersection between art and technology inherent in the games industry.

Abhishek Pandeya

Abhishek Pandeya

Data, Research & Web

PhD Student focusing in 3D Reconstruction at Oluwadare Lab.