Convert PDB to PowerPoint 3D View (.glb)

For presentations, you may need to display molecular structures from PDB files in PowerPoint or similar software that supports 3D models. PowerPoint accepts the .glb format.

This short guide explains how to quickly convert PDB files to .glb directly from the RCSB Protein Data Bank website (https://www.rcsb.org/).

Let's begin.

Method 1: Direct Download from RCSB PDB 

Step 1: Find Structure you want on RCSB PDB

Example: https://www.rcsb.org/structure/8QTV.

Step 2: Click the "Structure" below the protein image.

Step 3: Export Geometry as GLB

* In the molecular viewer, locate and click "Export Geometry".

Step 4: Select GLB Format and Save

* Under "Export Geometry", select "glTF 2.0 Binary (.glb)".

* Click "Save".

*(Image 4: Export options, GLB format selected)*

You now have the .glb file for PowerPoint.

Method 2: Convert Local PDB File 

For converting PDB files from your computer.

Step 1: Go to RCSB PDB (https://www.rcsb.org/), click "Visualize".

Step 2: Open PDB File

* In the viewer, click "Open files".

Step 3: Select and Apply PDB File

* In the import window, click "Open Files" again.

* Select your PDB file. Example files from: Nature Article or Figshare Dataset.

* Click "Apply".

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Step 4: View Structure, Export as GLB 

* Repeat Steps 3 and 4 of Method 1 to export as .glb.

Import to PowerPoint

To use the .glb file in PowerPoint:

1. PowerPoint: Insert > 3D Models > From File.

2. Select your .glb file.

3. Click Insert.

You can now display interactive 3D molecular models in your presentations, like this:

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