Molecular Genetics
Molecular Genetics - Related Videos
12:02
Molecular Evolution of the Tre Recombinase
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Cited by 4 •
2008
Here we report the generation of Tre recombinase through directed, molecular evolution. Tre recombinase recognizes a pre-defined target sequence within the LTR sequences of the HIV-1 provirus, resulting in the excision and eradication of the provirus from infected human cells. While still in its infancy, directed molecular evolution will allow the creation of custom enzymes that will serve as tools of molecular surgery and molecular medicine.
16:16
Genetically-encoded Molecular Probes to Study G Protein-coupled Receptors
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Cited by 15 •
2013
We genetically-encode the unnatural amino acid, p-azido-L-phenylalanine at various targeted positions in GPCRs and show the versatility of the azido group in different applications. These include a targeted photocrosslinking technology to identify residues in the ligand-binding pocket of a GPCR, and site-specific bioorthogonal modification of GPCRs with a peptide-epitope tag or fluorescent probe.
09:03
Forward Genetic Approaches in Chlamydia trachomatis
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Cited by 21 •
2013
We describe a methodology to perform genetic analysis in Chlamydia based on chemical mutagenesis and whole genome sequencing. In addition, a system for DNA exchange within infected cells is described that can be used for genetic mapping. This method may be broadly applicable to microbial systems lacking transformation systems and molecular genetic tools.
08:50
Genetic Screens
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2023
Genetic screens are critical tools for defining gene function and understanding gene interactions. Screens typically involve mutating genes and then assessing the affected organisms for phenotypes of interest. The process can be “forward”, where mutations are generated randomly to identify unknown genes responsible for the phenotypes, or it can be “reverse”, where specific genes are targeted for mutation to observe what phenotypes are produced.Here, JoVE reviews various types of genetic...
17:50
Preventing the Spread of Malaria and Dengue Fever Using Genetically Modified Mosquitoes
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Cited by 10 •
2007
In this candid interview, Anthony A. James explains how mosquito genetics can be exploited to control malaria and dengue transmission. Population replacement strategy, the idea that transgenic mosquitoes can be released into the wild to control disease transmission, is introduced as well as the concept of genetic drive and the design criterion for an effective genetic drive system. The ethical considerations of releasing genetically-modified organisms into the wild are also discussed.
FAQs
DNA replication matters because it preserves genetic information for transmission while creating the molecular basis for comparing normal and altered sequences. In a biochemical analysis, researchers examine how nucleic acids and enzymes participate in copying DNA, then consider whether sequence changes could modify later RNA production, protein formation, or cellular behavior.
Gene regulation adds a control layer beyond the DNA sequence itself. Regulatory molecules interact with nucleic acids and enzymes to influence gene activity, changing which RNA and protein outputs are produced without necessarily changing the underlying sequence. This distinction helps biochemical studies separate effects caused by altered genetic information from effects caused by altered control of that information.
Translation links nucleotide information to biochemical function by converting an RNA message into a protein. Because proteins can participate in metabolic pathways, a change in the DNA sequence or gene activity may alter protein production and consequently affect pathway behavior and cellular phenotype. This provides a molecular explanation for how genetic variation can produce observable biological differences.
A sequence change alters the stored genetic information, whereas a change in gene activity affects how that information is expressed. Both can lead to altered proteins and cellular phenotypes, but they represent different molecular starting points. In biochemistry, distinguishing them clarifies whether an observed metabolic or cellular effect is associated with DNA sequence or regulation.
A useful analysis follows the information flow from DNA to RNA to protein, then considers the protein’s connection to metabolic pathways and the resulting cellular phenotype. Researchers can also examine regulatory interactions involving nucleic acids, enzymes, and regulatory molecules. This sequence of questions organizes biochemical interpretation without treating a phenotype as evidence of only one molecular cause.
It allows investigators to connect altered DNA sequences or gene activity with changed proteins, metabolic pathways, and cellular phenotypes. That connection supports research into disease mechanisms and genetic variation, while also informing diagnostics and targeted therapies. The biochemical perspective is valuable because it links molecular alterations to functional consequences rather than considering genetic information in isolation.
Enzymes are central participants in the molecular events that connect genetic information with cellular function. In DNA replication, they support copying; in gene expression, they act within interactions involving nucleic acids and regulatory molecules. Studying these enzyme-dependent processes helps biochemists relate molecular events to altered RNA, proteins, metabolic pathways, and phenotypes.