Genetic Coding, Bioinformatics & Gene Regulation: Key Concepts and Applications

Open Reading Frames (ORFs)

An ORF is a sequence of DNA that can potentially be translated into a protein.

Structure of ORFs

Begins with a start codon and ends with a stop codon.

Importance of ORFs

The sequence between the start and stop codons must be a multiple of three to ensure correct reading during translation.

Reading Frames

A single DNA strand can be read in three different frames, depending on the starting point.

Double-Stranded DNA

Offers six possible reading frames.

Significance of Reading Frames

Understanding reading frames is crucial for interpreting genetic information and protein synthesis.

Transcription

Synthesis of RNA from a DNA template.

Directionality of Transcription

Occurs in the 5' to 3' direction.

Enzyme in Transcription

RNA polymerase plays a key role.

Translation

Synthesis of proteins from an RNA template.

Process of Translation

Involves reading the RNA sequence to form a polypeptide chain.

Bioinformatics

Computational analysis of biological data, such as DNA and protein sequences.

Applications of Bioinformatics

Includes vaccine development, predicting protein structures, and designing vaccines.

Example of Bioinformatics

COVID-19 vaccine development showcased the use of bioinformatics.

Gene Structure

Includes promoters and ribosome binding sites necessary for gene expression.

Regulatory Elements

Essential for transcription and translation.

Importance of Gene Regulation

Defines how genes are expressed and regulated.

Practical Application

Exercises include identifying ORFs and understanding mutations' impact on reading frames and protein sequences.

Tools for Genetic Analysis

Use of computational tools for genetic sequence analysis.

Identifying ORFs

Practice locating start and stop codons within a DNA sequence.

Mutation Analysis

Explore how mutations can alter reading frames and affect protein synthesis.

Bioinformatics Tools

Familiarize with software used for analyzing genetic data.