Bioinformatics at the DNALC!
In April 2003 it was announced that the final draft sequence of the human genome was complete. This monumental achievement is fueling tremendous research efforts to understand the information our DNA sequence encodes. Scientists have begun to identify genes, define the proteins these genes may produce, and understand how these proteins function. To achieve these goals, biologists are integrating computer-based tools into their research routines. This new field, called bioinformatics, allows scientists to make sense of huge amounts of sequence data and to "mine" genomes for meaning.
Students visiting the DNALC will have the unprecedented opportunity to work with the same computer tools and data that genome scientists use. The six computer-based modules listed below integrate enticing content with hands-on computer exercises. Students will analyze human, plant, bacterial, and viral genomes; compare DNA sequences across species; study the evolution of modern humans; understand how variations in DNA sequence contribute to disease; view three-dimensional structures of proteins; and learn about new strategies for developing therapeutic drugs.
All classes are two and a half hours in length, and will be conducted in our state-of-the-art Biomedia computer lab.
HIV: The Co-Evolution of Virus and Man
This computer-based exercise allows students to explore the life cycle, genome, and evolution of HIV. Using bioinformatics tools, students will compare the genetic sequences of different HIV strains from humans and other primates. Multimedia animations will illustrate the mechanism of action of anti-HIV drugs. Students will compare viral gene sequences to discover mutations that lead to drug resistance. Students will also investigate the human genetics of natural resistance to HIV infection and disease progression.
RESERVATION DETAILS
- Bioinformatics labs are restricted to students in grades 10, 11, and 12.
- Each Curriculum Study school is limited to four reservations – one free! – during academic year 2003-04. Non-Curriculum Study schools are limited to three reservations.
- The group lab rate is $13 per student with a minimum fee of $260.
- Unless other arrangements have been made in advance, all Bioinformatics labs begin promptly at 9:30 AM.
- Classes cancelled less than one month prior to their scheduled date will not be permitted additional computer lab visits.
- Reserve by phone; contact Amanda McBrien at (516) 367-5175.
HIV: The Co-Evolution of Virus and Man
Life cycle
HIV Biology
HIV: The Co-Evolution of Virus and Man
Genome
The genome and the genes in there
How to find genes
What are geens
How could you find them?
Where are the genes in HIV?
What is the function of the HIV genes?
What’s with nef?
What’s with the partitioned genes?
HIV: The Co-Evolution of Virus and Man
Evolution
Compare sequences of genes from different HIV isolates, SIV chimp and SIV mac--> HIV1, HIV2
HIV: The Co-Evolution of Virus and Man
Multimedia animations will illustrate the mechanism of action of anti-HIV drugs.
Students will compare viral gene sequences to discover mutations that lead to drug resistance.
Students will also investigate the human genetics of natural resistance to HIV infection and disease progression.