Notes on Molecular Biology Course Introduction

Instructor Information

• Dr. Vishal Dedi
• Department of Bio and Bi Engineering, IIT Guhari

Key Concepts

• Human Body Composition

  • Composed of trillions of cells
  • Cells made up of various biomolecules:
    • Proteins
    • Carbohydrates
    • Lipids
    • Nucleic Acids

• Importance of Molecules

  • Molecules interact to drive biological processes.
  • Responsible for cellular function and organization.

Course Structure

1. Understanding Cells

   • Types of Cells:
     • Prokaryotic
     • Eukaryotic
   • Cell Activities:
     • Cell Division
     • Apoptosis
     • Autophagy

2. Biomolecules

   • Nucleic Acids
   • Proteins
   • Enzymes

3. Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

   • Processes:
     • Replication
     • Transcription
     • Translation

4. Molecular Techniques

   • PCR and RT-PCR
   • Blotting Techniques:
     • Southern Blotting
     • Northern Blotting
     • Western Blotting
   • Genome Editing Techniques
   • Applications in Disease Detection:
     • PCR for disease detection
     • RT-PCR for COVID and other diseases

Practical Aspects

• Combination of theoretical and experimental learning:
  • Discussion of experiments (e.g., flow cytometry for cell cycle)
  • Lab demonstrations

Course Audience

• Targeted at:
  • Undergraduate and Postgraduate students (BTech, MTech, MSc)
  • Early-stage PhD students

Evaluation Method

• Weekly assignments
• Multiple choice questions
• Final exam with 100 questions (3 hours to complete)
• Some questions based on assignments

Learning Outcomes

• Understand basic cell biology and molecular interactions
• Explain biological processes like digestion and circulation
• Familiarity with various molecular techniques and their applications

Conclusion

• Expectation of a good learning experience
• Encouragement to enjoy the course

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