Key words
Bioinformatics and biostatistics, T490, B110
Objectives
During the last five years, bio-informatics evolved from an obscure academic specialization to the keyword of the modern biology and biotechnology. The genetic code of man and a number of model organisms is almost completely broken. This generates a huge number of biological data that only represents the top of the iceberg. DNA-data are linked world-wide with RNA and protein banks and DNA-chips produce expression patterns and time correlations of ten thousands of genes in a short time. With specialized software, “data-mining” becomes possible: seeking for useful genes and gene products. As a consequence, creating new transgenic organisms and developing new medicines and food will become cheaper and faster. Every professional active in a biotechnology related field should be able to master a number of bioinformatics tools.
Topics
After every theoretical introduction follow exercises with web based software to analyze and process DNA, RNA and protein-data. Genes and proteins are retrieved and compared. Common base paires are visualized and a cluster analysis is performed. Possible primer pairs are designed and controlled. Restriction enzymes perform their virtual action. In silico, promoters are linked to protein coding genes,… When the basis tools are required, virtual projects are carried out. The only limit is the student’s insight and imagination, and the available software, are the only limits. The start of a project is always the analysis of scientific articles and reviews. The exercises illustrate other biotechnological courses and are helpful for the student thesis.
Prerequisites
knowledge about biochemistry, biotechnology, genetics, informatics
Final Objectives
- Providing insight in the way DNA, RNA and protein data banks are created, organized and linked
- Learning how to retrieve, analyze, process sequences and how
- learning how to interpret of retrieved and processed results
- the ability to analyze a bioinformatics problem and to select optimal software and background information in relation to the problem
- creativity and initiative
- ability to work independently
Materials used
Lecture notes ‘Bioinformatics and biostatistics’in Dutch
software manuals, internet
Study costs
Cost: 10.0 EUR
10 Euro
Study guidance
Permanent possibility for questioning, guidance and coaching.
Teaching Methods
practical computer exercises, project work, visit
Assessment
Evaluation results of exercises and projects
Lecturer(s)
Stefaan Werbrouck
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