6.
Molecular Biology Fundamentals
Molecular biology studies the molecular mechanisms that govern life,
focusing on DNA, RNA, proteins, and their interactions.
DNA serves as the genetic blueprint of life. It stores hereditary information in
the sequence of nucleotides, which encode instructions for protein synthesis.
The central dogma of molecular biology describes the flow of genetic
information: DNA → RNA → Protein.
Replication ensures DNA is copied before cell division. DNA polymerase is the
main enzyme, and complementary base pairing guarantees fidelity.
Transcription converts DNA information into messenger RNA (mRNA). RNA
polymerase reads the template strand, generating complementary RNA
sequences.
Translation occurs at ribosomes, where mRNA is decoded into a polypeptide
chain. Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) bring amino acids that match codons in the
mRNA.
Proteins serve as enzymes, structural components, transporters, and
signaling molecules. Their function depends on their three-dimensional
structure, which results from folding.
Post-translational modifications (phosphorylation, methylation, glycosylation)
fine-tune protein activity.
Gene expression is regulated at multiple levels: transcriptional control
(promoters, enhancers), RNA processing (splicing, editing), and protein
degradation.
Mutations alter DNA sequences, potentially changing protein function. Some
are silent, while others cause diseases such as cystic fibrosis or cancer.
Epigenetics studies heritable changes in gene expression not caused by DNA
sequence changes. DNA methylation and histone modification are key
mechanisms.
Molecular biology techniques include PCR (amplifying DNA), gel
electrophoresis (separating fragments), DNA sequencing, and CRISPR-Cas9
(gene editing).
Modern biotechnology applies molecular biology in medicine, agriculture, and
industry:
o Recombinant DNA for producing insulin and vaccines.
o Genetically modified crops with improved resistance.
o Gene therapy for correcting defective genes.
Molecular biology links with bioinformatics, systems biology, and synthetic
biology to model and engineer biological systems.
Overall, molecular biology provides the foundation for understanding life at
the most fundamental level, enabling innovations in health, energy, and
biotechnology.
