Derepression
Derepression refers to a biological process in which the repression of gene expression is lifted, allowing for transcription and the subsequent expression of genes that were previously inactive or suppressed. This mechanism is important in various cellular processes, including cellular response to environmental changes, development, and differentiation. In genetic regulation, proteins called repressors can bind to specific DNA sequences and inhibit the transcription of target genes.
Digital polymerase chain reaction (digital PCR or dPCR) is an advanced molecular biology technique used to quantify nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) with high precision and sensitivity. It is a refinement of the traditional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), focusing on providing absolute quantification without the need for reference standards or calibration curves.
Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are a class of medications primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and, in some cases, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The development of these inhibitors is a notable story in the field of pharmacology and drug discovery. ### Discovery 1.
Disease gene identification
Disease gene identification is a process used to discover specific genes that are associated with particular diseases or health conditions. This process is important for understanding the genetic basis of diseases, which can lead to better diagnosis, prevention, and treatment options. The identification of disease-related genes can involve several methodologies, including: 1. **Genetic Association Studies**: Researchers look for statistical associations between genetic variants (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs) and specific diseases within large populations.
Diversity-generating retroelements (DGRs) are a class of genetic elements that have the ability to introduce variability into the genetic sequences of their host organisms. They are primarily found in certain bacteria and archaea and are characterized by their unique mechanism of generating diversity. The key features of DGRs include: 1. **Mechanism of Variation**: DGRs utilize a process involving reverse transcription to create diversity.
Double-stranded RNA viruses
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) viruses are a group of viruses that have a genome composed of double-stranded RNA rather than the more common single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) or single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). These viruses can infect a variety of hosts, including animals, plants, and fungi. Here are some key characteristics and information about dsRNA viruses: 1. **Structure**: The genome of dsRNA viruses usually consists of one or more segments of double-stranded RNA.
Double Helix (novel)
"Double Helix" is a novel by Nancy Werlin, published in 2004. The story revolves around a teenage boy named Eli who discovers that his family has a complex and dark history related to genetic research. The narrative intertwines themes of identity, ethics in science, and the implications of genetic manipulation.
Downregulation and upregulation
Downregulation and upregulation are biological processes that describe how cells respond to various stimuli by increasing or decreasing the abundance of specific receptors, proteins, or enzymes. These processes are crucial for maintaining homeostasis in biological systems and for the adaptation of cells to changes in their environment. ### Downregulation - **Definition**: Downregulation refers to the process by which a cell decreases the number or sensitivity of receptors or proteins in response to an external stimulus.
Duplex sequencing
Duplex sequencing is an advanced DNA sequencing technology that enhances the accuracy of genome sequencing by resolving common types of errors encountered in traditional sequencing methods. This technique is particularly useful for applications such as detecting mutations in complex or repetitive genomic regions. The key feature of duplex sequencing is that it utilizes both strands of a DNA molecule.
EIF2
EIF2, or eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2, is a critical protein that plays a key role in the initiation of protein synthesis (translation) in eukaryotic cells. It is involved in the formation of the translation initiation complex, which is required for ribosomes to initiate protein synthesis at the start codon of mRNA.
EMBO Membership
EMBO Membership refers to the membership of the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), which is an organization that supports the research community in the field of molecular biology and related disciplines. Founded in 1964, EMBO aims to promote collaboration and sharing of knowledge among scientists in Europe and globally. EMBO Membership is granted to outstanding researchers in the field who have made significant contributions to molecular biology.
EMBO Reports
EMBO Reports is a scientific journal published by the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO). It focuses on the dissemination of research findings and reviews in the field of molecular biology. The journal aims to provide a platform for high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that are accessible to a broad audience, including researchers, educators, and practitioners in the life sciences. EMBO Reports often includes original research articles, reviews, opinion pieces, and commentary on various topics within the molecular biology sphere.
EXPOSE
The term "EXPOSE" can refer to different concepts depending on the context. Here are a few potential meanings: 1. **Docker Command**: In the context of Docker, `EXPOSE` is a directive in a Dockerfile that indicates which ports the container will listen on when running. It does not publish the port; it merely serves as documentation and a hint for the user.
Eadie–Hofstee diagram
The Eadie–Hofstee diagram is a graphical representation used in biochemistry and enzymology to analyze enzyme kinetics, particularly to determine parameters such as the maximum reaction rate (V_max) and the Michaelis constant (K_m) of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction. The Eadie–Hofstee plot is derived from the Michaelis-Menten equation, which describes the rate of enzymatic reactions as a function of substrate concentration.
EcoRI
EcoRI is a restriction enzyme, specifically a type II restriction endonuclease, that is widely used in molecular biology. It is derived from the bacterium *Escherichia coli* (hence the name "Eco") and was first identified in the 1970s. EcoRI recognizes and cuts DNA at a specific sequence of six nucleotides: GAATTC.
EcoRV
EcoRV is a type of restriction enzyme, specifically a restriction endonuclease that is derived from the bacterium *Escherichia coli* (E. coli) strain RY13. It recognizes a specific DNA sequence and cleaves the double-stranded DNA at unique sites within that sequence. The recognition sequence for EcoRV is 5'–GAT^ATC–3', where the caret (^) indicates the position where the enzyme cuts the DNA.
Edman degradation
Edman degradation is a well-established method for the sequential identification of amino acids in a peptide or protein. This technique allows for the determination of the amino acid sequence from the N-terminus of a peptide. Here is a brief overview of the process: 1. **Chemical Reaction**: The method involves the use of phenylisothiocyanate (PITC), which reacts with the free amino group of the N-terminal amino acid of the peptide.
Effective number of codons
The Effective Number of Codons (Nc) is a measure used in molecular biology and bioinformatics to quantify the degree of codon usage bias in a set of genes or a genome. It reflects how efficiently a set of codons is used in coding for amino acids in proteins, taking into account the redundancy of the genetic code. Each amino acid is coded by one or more codons (with some amino acids being represented by multiple synonymous codons).
Electro-switchable biosurface
Electro-switchable biosurfaces are specialized surfaces whose properties can be dynamically altered through the application of an electric field. These surfaces often incorporate materials or coatings that can respond to electrical stimuli, leading to changes in their chemical or physical characteristics, such as wettability, adhesion, or biocompatibility. ### Key Features: 1. **Dynamic Modulation**: By applying or changing voltage, the surface properties can be switched on and off, or altered in a controlled manner.
Electroblotting
Electroblotting is a laboratory technique used to transfer proteins or nucleic acids from a gel (usually after electrophoresis) to a membrane, such as nitrocellulose or PVDF (polyvinylidene difluoride). This method is essential in molecular biology and biochemistry for the analysis and detection of specific biomolecules.