Module-1-Molecular-Biology-and-Genetic-Engineering

Module Overview

• Title: Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering

• Instructor: Mr. Richard Owan K. Sanchez

• Grade: 12th

Objectives

• Explain the processes of transcription and translation

• Discuss principles of recombinant DNA technology

• Describe techniques in recombinant DNA technology

• Explain applications in producing transgenic organisms

• Discuss advantages and disadvantages of genetic engineering

Table of Contents

1. DNA, RNA, and Proteins

2. DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis

3. Processes Involved in Genetic Engineering

4. Applications and Relevant Issues on Recombinant DNA

DNA, RNA, and Proteins

• Friedrich Miescher discovered "nuclein" (DNA)

• DNA: the primary genetic material; RNA: involved in protein synthesis

• DNA's roles include:

  • Storage of genetic information

  • Replication and inheritance

  • Providing mutation opportunities for diversity

Structure of DNA

• Components: Nitrogenous bases, pentose sugar, phosphate group

• Bonds: Glycosidic bonds between sugar and base; Phosphodiester bonds make up the backbone

• Polynucleotide chains: Unique sequence dictates genetic information

DNA Helix

• Two strands are antiparallel, with complementary base pairing

• Chargaff's Rules: A=T, G=C

• Rosalind Franklin's x-ray crystallography contributed to the discovery of DNA double helix structure

RNA Molecule

• Structure: Single-stranded, contains uracil instead of thymine

• Functions: mRNA (messaging), tRNA (transport), rRNA (ribosomal structure)

• Ribozymes: RNA molecules with catalytic functions

DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis

• DNA Replication: Essential for growth and reproduction

• Models: Semi-conservative (new and old strands), conservative, and dispersive replication

• Mechanism involves unwinding of DNA, RNA primer addition, and new strand synthesis by DNA polymerase

Processes of Transcription and Translation

• Transcription: DNA to RNA

  • Steps: Initiation, elongation, termination

• Translation: RNA to protein

  • Steps: tRNA charging, initiation, elongation, termination

Genetic Engineering

• Direct manipulation of genes in lab settings

• Recombinant DNA Technology: Involves gene isolation and introduction into other organisms

• Case Study: Bt corn – genetically modified to resist pests by integrating the Bt toxin gene

Applications of Genetic Engineering

• Agriculture (e.g., Golden Rice)

• Pharmaceuticals (e.g., insulin production in E. coli)

• Genetic testing and therapy

• Environmental applications like bioremediation

Ethical and Health Issues

• Potential health effects: Allergic reactions, cancer risks, effects on biodiversity

• Ethical concerns regarding genetic modifications in natural organisms

Resources

• Various literature on molecular biology and genetic engineering methods and applications