Biochemistry

Study of chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.

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Advanced Topics

Genetic Information and Molecular Biology

How Cells Store and Use Instructions

Every living organism contains DNA, a molecule that holds the instructions for building and running the cell. Molecular biology explores how genetic information is stored, copied, and used to make proteins.

The Central Dogma

  • DNA is transcribed into RNA.
  • RNA is translated into proteins.

DNA Replication

  • Ensures genetic information is passed to new cells.

Gene Expression

  • Cells control which genes are active, allowing specialization.

Advances in this area have led to gene editing technologies and personalized medicine.

Key Formula

\[ \text{DNA} \xrightarrow{\text{transcription}} \text{RNA} \xrightarrow{\text{translation}} \text{Protein} \]

Key Formula

\[\text{DNA} \xrightarrow{\text{transcription}} \text{RNA} \xrightarrow{\text{translation}} \text{Protein}\]

Examples

  • CRISPR lets scientists edit genes to correct mutations.

  • Insulin for diabetes treatment is produced by genetically modified bacteria.

In a Nutshell

DNA's instructions are transcribed and translated to make the proteins that run our cells.

Key Terms

Transcription
Copying DNA information into RNA.
Translation
Using RNA to build proteins.
Genome
The complete set of genes in an organism.
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