Lecture, Chapter 3 - DNA, RNA, and Protein

Today we had our first lecture, and we covered most of chapter 3, on the structure and basic function of DNA, RNA, and proteins.

We covered the basic structure of nucleic acids and some of the main differences between DNA and RNA. We also mentioned a few key characteristics of the structure of chromosomes.

Next week we'll finish chapter 3 and start chapter 4, on genes, genomes and DNA ("how DNA is organized in organisms" according to the road map [see Power Point presentation from first meeting]).

Reminders:

• Two quizzes next week
• Topics of choice for review paper in two weeks

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Fall 2009...!!!

Welcome to the Fall 2009 version of Introduction to Molecular Biology...!!!

In today's session we went over the syllabus and explained some of the main components of the class. Besides the syllabus hard copy you have by now you can download it from the class WebCT site as well as from the p-drive (under 'a-cordoba').

Reminders:

• You must read chapters 1 and 2 in the textbook, or be comfortable with the material. We will not lecture on those chapters but the information is important as background for the rest of the course.
• Pair up with a classmate in order to prepare for writing the review paper in a topic on molecular biology. As of now there are 22 registered students in the class, so there is no need for a team of three. Choose wisely, since part of your grade will depend on your team-mate (see syllabus).
• Prepare a list of three topics you would like to develop in the review paper and the reasons for choosing them. By week 3 you must meet with me, out of class, so we can choose one of the topics, based on your reasons, relevance for your future career, and relevance for the class.

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Have a great quarter!

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