Introduction to Genomics

What is a cell?

All living things are made of cells. They are the basic building blocks of life. The human body is composed of trillions of cells, all with their own specialised function.

In the Cell

What is DNA?

DNA is the long molecule that contains your unique genetic code. A bit like a recipe book, it holds the instructions your cells need to make all the proteins in your body.

In the Cell

What is a gene?

Genes are small sections of DNA that code for a functional product, like a protein.

In the Cell

What is a chromosome?

Chromosomes are tightly coiled bundles of DNA found in the nucleus of almost every cell in our body.

In the Cell

What is a genome?

A genome is an organism’s complete set of genetic instructions. Each genome contains all of the information needed to build that organism and allow it to grow and develop.

In the Cell

What is RNA?

RNA is a nucleic acid similar to DNA, but with only a single, helical strand of bases. It plays a key role in turning DNA instructions into functional proteins.

In the Cell

How is DNA turned into protein? The Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

The ‘Central Dogma of Molecular Biology’ is a model describing the way information stored in our DNA is converted into a functional product, such as a protein. It was first proposed in 1958 by Francis Crick, who co-discovered the structure of DNA.

In the Cell

What is a mutation?

A mutation is a change that occurs in our DNA sequence. This can be caused by normal processes inside the cell or by environmental factors, such as UV light.

In the Cell

What is inheritance?

Inheritance is the way that genetic information is passed from a parent to a child.

In the Cell

What is a genetic condition?

A genetic condition is usually a medical condition or illness, caused by a change in a person’s DNA sequence.

Health and Disease

What is genetic testing?

Genetic testing looks for changes and variations in DNA that could put a person at higher risk of a genetic condition.

Health and Disease

What are infectious diseases?

Infectious diseases are caused by microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites and can spread between individuals.

Health and Disease

What is DNA sequencing?

DNA sequencing is the process of working out the exact order of the four chemical building blocks – called bases – in a section of DNA.

Methods and Technology

What is genome editing?

Genome editing is a way of making specific changes to a cell or organism’s DNA – such as adding, removing or altering the DNA sequence. This can be used to change the cell or organism’s characteristics.

Methods and Technology

The Human Genome Project

The Human Genome Project was a large, international project that generated the first sequence of the human genome.

Methods and Technology

Timeline: History of Genomics

Explore key events in genomics and genetics research alongside those in historical and popular culture.

Science in Society