Central Dogma

• Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

  A fundamental principle that describes the flow of genetic information within a biological system
• Replication: DNA Duplication

  1. DNA Unwinding

  2. Complementary Base Pairing

  3. Semiconservative Replication

  
• Transcription: DNA to RNA


  1. Unwinding

  2. Templating

  3. Synthesis

  
• Translation: RNA to Protein

  1. Transcription

  2. Ribosome Assembly

  3. Amino Acid Addition

  
• Transcription Factors


  Proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences, regulating the expression of nearby genes
• Epigenetic Modifications


  Changes in DNA methylation and histone acetylation that can alter gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence
• Cellular Pathways


  Signaling cascades and cellular pathways that integrate environmental and developmental cues to regulate gene expression programs
• Genetic Mutations


  Alterations in the DNA sequence that can disrupt the normal function of genes, leading to a wide range of health problems
• Inherited Conditions


  Genetic diseases that are passed down from parents to their children
• Advances in Treatment

  New therapies and interventions, including gene editing techniques and personalized medicine, that offer hope for those affected by genetic disorders
• Genetic Inheritance


  The process by which genetic information is passed from parents to their offspring
• Mendelian Genetics


  The principles of heredity first described by Gregor Mendel, explaining how dominant and recessive alleles are passed down through generations
• DNA and Chromosomes


  The genetic information that determines our traits is stored in the DNA molecules within the chromosomes of our cells

  
• Genetic Diversity


  The variety of different genes and genetic information found within a population or species
• Sources of Variation

  Mutations, genetic recombination during sexual reproduction, and the introduction of new genetic material through migration or hybridization
• Evolutionary Importance

  Genetic diversity enables populations to adapt to changing environmental conditions
• Conservation Implications

  Maintaining genetic diversity is crucial for the long-term viability of plant and animal populations
• Epigenetics


  The study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence
• Biotechnology


  The applications of molecular biology, enabling advancements in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science