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Molecular Biology and Genetics

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on molecular biology and genetics! This subject is fundamental to understanding life processes at the cellular level. As a student pursuing a degree in this field, you'll find this resource invaluable in your studies.

What is Molecular Biology?​

Molecular biology is the study of the structure, function, and interactions of biological molecules, including DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids. It focuses on understanding how these molecules work together to perform cellular functions and maintain life.

Key Concepts​

  • DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the genetic material found in cells
  • RNA: Ribonucleic acid, involved in protein synthesis and other cellular processes
  • Proteins: Complex biomolecules essential for various cellular functions
  • Genetics: The study of heredity and variation

What is Genetics?​

Genetics is the study of genes, heredity, and variation. It examines how organisms inherit traits from one generation to the next and how these traits are expressed.

Types of Genetic Material​

  • Autosomal: Found on non-sex chromosomes
  • Sex-linked: Found on sex chromosomes (X and Y)
  • Mitochondrial: Found in mitochondria, inherited maternally

Basic Principles of Molecular Biology​

The Central Dogma of Molecular Biology​

The central dogma describes the flow of genetic information within a biological system:

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Gel Electrophoresis​

A method used to separate DNA fragments based on size.

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What is Molecular Biology?

Molecular biology is the study of the structure, function, and interactions of biological molecules. It focuses on understanding how these molecules work together to perform cellular functions and maintain life.

Key Components of Molecular Biology​

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)​

DNA is the genetic material found in cells. It contains the instructions for creating proteins and passing genetic information from one generation to the next.

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  • Single Stranded: Unlike DNA, RNA is typically single-stranded
  • Base Composition: Five nucleotide bases - adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), uracil (U), and thymine (T)

Proteins​

Proteins are complex biomolecules essential for various cellular functions. They are composed of amino acids linked together in long chains called polypeptides.

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