DECODE The Script of LIFE

     Genes are the fundamental units of heredity, acting as the instructions for the synthesis of proteins that perform a multitude of functions within living organisms. Each gene is a segment of DNA located on chromosomes, carrying the code that dictates specific traits or functions. For instance, the gene for eye color contains the blueprint for the production of pigments that give our eyes their distinctive hues, such as blue, brown, or green.     A lleles, on the other hand, are different versions of the same gene that arise due to variations in the DNA sequence at a particular locus on a chromosome. These variations lead to the diversity of traits observed within a species. A single gene for hair color, for example, may have multiple alleles corresponding to black, brown, blonde, or red hair. Similarly, the gene determining blood type possesses alleles A, B, and O, each contributing to the blood type of an individual.      The expression of these alleles can be either dominant o

  Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance The chromosomal theory of inheritance was proposed independently by Walter Sutton and Theodore Boveri in 1902. They stated that behavior of chromosomes was parallel to behavior of genes and used chromosome movement to explain Mendel’s laws. The hereditary factors are carried in the nucleus. Like the Mendelian alleles, chromosomes are also found in pairs. The sperm and eggs having haploid sets of chromosomes fuse to re-establish the diploid state. Morgan extensively worked on fruit flies, Drosophila melanogaster and provided experimental evidence to support the chromosomal theory of inheritance. Comparison between the behavior of Genes and Chromosomes Genes Chromosomes Occurs in Pairs. Occurs in Pairs. Segregate at the time of gamete formation such that only one of each pair is transmitted to a gamete. Segregate at gamete formation and only one of each pair is transmitted to a gamete. It has independent pairs segregate independently of each other. It

  What is a Cell? A cell is defined as the most basic, structural and functional unit of all living organisms. Essentially, a cell is a structure that contains organelles which provide the necessary functions to sustain itself. However, not all cells are the same. Plants have cells that are vastly different from animals. One of the primary differences between the two is the absence of cell walls in  animal cells . Cells also vary in size, with the largest one in the human body being the egg or the female ovum. It measures roughly 1 millimetre across. The smallest cell is the granule cell which is found in the human cerebellum, measuring roughly around 4.5 micrometres in size. Cell Theory This scientific theory, initially formulated by Matthias Schleiden and Theodor Schwann, proposed that all living organisms are composed of cells, and new cells are formed from pre-existing cells. Even though the theory was put forth by Schleiden and Schwann, other notable scientists have contributed to

 Genomics_command_line_quiz1 For all projects, you may use your own Unix-based system and, where applicable, ensure that you are running the version of the software specified in the assignments. Alternatively, you may use the VMBox virtual machine environment provided with the course materials. Instructions on how to download and use the environment can be found on the course web site. For the following questions, refer to the class workflow and use the data in the Online materials (‘gencommand_proj1_data.tar.gz’) to answer the questions. Assume you sequenced and assembled the genome of Malus domestica (apple), and performed gene annotation. You then collected samples and ran RNA-seq experiments to determine sets of genes that are expressed in the various tissues. This information was stored, respectively, in the following files: “apple.genome”, “apple.genes”, “apple.condition{A,B,C}”. NOTE: The apple genome and the apple gene annotations for this project were extracted from the Rosace

In this  fascinating world of cells, DNA, and the intriguing similarities and differences between humans and our closest relatives, chimpanzees. Cells as Building Blocks: A cell is the smallest unit of a living organism. Whether an organism consists of a single cell (like bacteria) or many cells (like a human), it is called an organism. Cells serve as the basic building blocks of all living things. Tissues, organs, and organ systems are formed by the interconnection of different types of cells. For instance: Epithelial cells protect body surfaces and cover organs. Bone cells provide support and protection. Immune system cells fight off invaders. Blood cells transport nutrients and oxygen while removing waste. Despite their diversity, cells across organisms share fundamental characteristics. Human DNA vs. Chimpanzee DNA: Similarity: Humans and chimpanzees share an astonishing 99% of their DNA. Chimps are our “closest cousins in the animal kingdom” . Obvious Similarities: Both laugh when