DECODE The Script of LIFE

  The Marvel of Molecular Biology The Central Dogma of Life,   a fundamental concept in molecular biology, describes the flow of genetic information within a biological system. It was first proposed by Francis Crick in 1958 and further expanded upon in 1970.  The Central Dogma involves three key processes: DNA replication, transcription, and translation DNA Replication DNA replication is the process by which a cell duplicates its DNA before cell division, ensuring that each new cell receives an exact copy of the genetic instructions. The replication process begins at specific locations on the DNA molecule called origins of replication, where the double helix unwinds to expose the template strands.  Each strand of the DNA molecule serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, following the base pairing rules (A pairs with T, and G pairs with C).  The result is two identical DNA molecules, each composed of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand . Tra

 Introduction to Molecular Biology Cells are fundamental building blocks of living organisms. Cells contain a nucleus, mitochondria and chloroplasts, endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes, vacuoles, etc.  The nucleus is important organelle because it houses chromosomes which include the DNA.  The DNA is in essence a blueprint of the organism as it encodes information needed to synthesize proteins . Molecular biologist s would like to understand how human biology works with the hope to treat diseases like cancer. One can look at simpler organisms such as yeasts to understand how human biology works.  Admittedly, unicellular yeasts are very different from humans who have approximately 1014 cells. However, the DNA is similar across all living organisms. For example, humans share 99% of DNA with chimps. Naturally, we would like to know what information contained in that 1% of DNA is so critical to determine all the distinguishing features of humans,  DNA            DNA stands for deoxyribonucle

  Types Of Mutations Quick Navigation Summary box for Types of Mutations The role of DNA sequences –a reminder Types of mutations Point mutations Substitution Insertions and deletions Consequences of point mutations and examples Missense mutations Sickle Cell Anaemia Nonsense mutations Duchenne muscular dystrophy Frameshift mutations Frequently Asked Questions What are the major types of mutations? What are point mutations? What are frameshift mutations? What is a nonsense mutation? Summary box for Types of Mutations Mutations occur through various mechanisms that can impact genes, chromosomes, and outcomes differently. Mutations can occur on a single nucleotide scale (at the level of point mutations), or on a much larger scale (where segments of whole chromosomes are affected. Substitution of nucleotides can be synonymous (silent) or non-synonymous (change amino acid). The resulting mutations can be missense (amino acid change in sequence) or nonsense (premature stop codon is encoded.