MIB-21306 Bioinformation Technology

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Cell Biology I, Microbiology & Biochemistry or Gentechnology

Continuation courses:

Genomics and Applied Bioinformatics

Contents:

The course is divided in 8 modules:
1. A general introduction to DNA analysis and sequencing. In this module it is explained what we can and what we can not do with primary sequence analysis.
2. Introduction in Proteomics. An introduction of tandem mass spectrometry of peptides and proteins and an overview of its applications is given, demonstrating the use of LC-MS-MS data in identifying proteins of interest.
3. Sequence alignments and sequence database queries.
An introduction to text-mining tools, matrices and the FastA and Blast sequence comparison methods. Topics include sequence search strategies, the dynamic algorithms involved and E values and Bit scores.
4. An introduction in transcriptome analysis. Topics are the construction of arrays, their usage and limitations. Real array data will be used to demonstrate how these data can be applied in solving biological questions.
5. Usage of specialised Internet sites for extracting topological signals from protein sequences.
6. Multiple sequence alignments as a tool: to clarify the function of an unknown protein, to aid in cloning of a gene and to extract phylogenetic signals. Assumptions, limitations and pitfalls are discussed.
7. Annotation of sequences using web-based programs.
8. Protein models and structures. Comparison of three-dimensional protein structures and usage of structural databases, like CATH, SCOP, FSSP and MMDB. Homology based three-dimensional modelling of proteins.

Learning outcomes:

Intended learning outcomes:
Knowledge:
- widely used bioinformatics applications for DNA assembly, translation into proteins, sequence alignments, identification of protein motifs and protein structure prediction;
- advantages and shortcomings of databases that store text, nucleotide and protein sequences and DNA microarray data;
- advantages and shortcomings of DNA and protein sequence analysis software using FastA or BLAST algorithms and in use for multiple sequence alignment, SRS, topological signal prediction, protein 3D prediction;
- an understanding of the appropriate application of a range of bioinformatics software.
Skills:
- a familiarity with the use of much of the existing software for the analysis of DNA and protein data;
- an ability to select the most appropriate bioinformatics tools for a given analysis;
- an ability to synthesise genomics information with respect to the biological questions.

Activities:

Hands on course introductory lectures, training and study of relevant literature.

Examination:

Reading and discussion of papers (10%) a theoretical exam (45%) and an assignment (45%). The results of the 2-day assignment will be presented in the form of a written report combined with an oral presentation.

Literature:

Book: Bioinformatics (Methods express) ISBN: 9781904842163. Lectures additional reading and hands-on excercises are made available in electronic form (Black Board) during the course.