A primer of molecular biology

Abstract

Molecular biology is the study of biology at the molecular level, which translates to studying DNA, proteins, and metabolites of biological processes. Tests of DNA, the genetic code, look for genetic variations that can uniquely identify an organism, or variations that are associated with health and disease. Protein structure largely determines protein function, so studies of structure are essential for understanding the underlying biology and for identifying targets for intervention. The ability to predict protein structure from genotype is minimal, and the correlation between the amount of mRNA expressed and protein produced is poor. Measuring protein directly is desirable, although much more challenging. Proteins indicate host response to infection with a specific microorganism, and vice versa. Once identified, proteins corresponding to different disease stages can be used for diagnosis and as prognostic factors. Many small molecules (metabolites) such as lipids and carbohydrates vary in health and disease. Several chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and bone tissue loss, are monitored using biomarkers of metabolism. In the future, it is likely that metabolites will give additional information on the host–microorganism interaction that will be useful diagnostic tools and prognostic indicators.