What is this collection about?

Life on Earth relies on a limited set of proteinogenic amino acids, yet researchers increasingly use unnatural or non-canonical amino acids to expand the capabilities of biological systems. These molecules are powerful tools for high-throughput screening, modifying protein properties and exploring fundamental biological questions. In this cross-journal Collection, Nature Communications, npj Structural Biology and Scientific Reports welcome research highlighting the use of unnatural amino acids in synthetic biology, structural biology, enzymology, pharmacology and medicine. Nature Communications and npj Structural Biology will consider original Articles, Reviews and Perspectives, while Scientific Reports will consider original Articles.

Why is this collection important?

Unnatural amino acids are enabling researchers to extend the chemistry of life beyond its natural boundaries. Advances in genetic code expansion, protein engineering and chemical biology are creating new opportunities to study biological systems, develop innovative therapeutics and design proteins with enhanced or entirely new functions. This Collection highlights research at the intersection of biology, chemistry and biotechnology, helping to showcase developments that could influence both fundamental science and future medical and technological applications.

Why submit to a collection?

Collections like this one help promote high-quality science. They are led by Guest Editors and In-House Editors who are experts in their fields and supported by a dedicated team of Commissioning Editors and Managing Editors at Springer Nature. Collection manuscripts typically see higher citations, downloads, and Altmetric scores, and provide a one-stop-shop on a cutting-edge topic of interest.

Who is involved?

Nature Communications is edited by in-house professional editors.

npj Structural Biology is edited by a team of external academic editors.

Scientific Reports is managed by in-house professional editors and edited by Editorial Board Members.

Our editors work closely together to ensure the quality of our published papers and consistency in author experience.

How can I submit my paper?

Visit the Collection page to find out more about this collection and submit your article.