Description:
This advanced-level course delves into the intricate processes of DNA replication, cellular metabolism, and energy production, which are fundamental to all living organisms. Students will explore the molecular mechanisms behind DNA replication, including the enzymes involved, the structure and function of chromosomes, and how cells ensure accurate replication.
The course also covers the metabolic pathways that cells use to generate energy, such as glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, explaining how these processes are interconnected with cellular functions and genetic regulation. The role of ATP as the energy currency of the cell will be explored in detail, highlighting the relationship between metabolism and the flow of genetic information.
With a strong focus on practical application, students will work with bioinformatics tools to model DNA replication, analyze metabolic pathways, and explore how energy production impacts genetic expression. This course provides the necessary foundation for advanced studies in molecular biology, genetics, and cellular physiology.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, learners will:
Understand the molecular mechanisms and enzymes involved in DNA replication, and how cells maintain the integrity of genetic information.
Comprehend the processes of cellular energy production, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
Analyze how metabolic pathways generate ATP and how cellular energy is used to support biological processes.
Explore the relationship between cellular metabolism and gene regulation, particularly how energy levels influence DNA replication and gene expression.
Apply bioinformatics tools to simulate DNA replication and map metabolic pathways in cells, gaining hands-on experience in computational biology.
Tools and Software Covered:
CellDesigner: For modeling DNA replication processes.
MetaboAnalyst: For analyzing and visualizing metabolic pathways.
KEGG Pathway Maps: For exploring energy production and metabolism.
Reactome: For detailed analysis of biochemical pathways and their genetic regulation.