Protein to Disease

Evidence of Work

Alzheimers

After studying DNA and protein synthesis and how it goes right, the next step seemed to be what happens when it goes wrong. Namely, how a genetic mutation causes an error in protein synthesis, leading to a genetic disorder. Our group decided to study Alzheimer's. Specifically, our assignment was to find out what it is, the symptoms of it, what protein is affected, who is most susceptible, what treatments or cures exist, and what interesting research is being conducted right now.

Content

  • DNA replication

    • The semi-conservative process by which DNA gets copied

  • Nucleic acids

    • Molecules in DNA that form codons

  • Codon

    • A sequence of 3 DNA bases that code for an amino acid

    • Can be changed by mutations

  • Gene

    • A sequence of codons that provides necessary information for protein synthesis

    • Provides wrong information if a mutation has occurred

  • Transcription

    • The process of creating an RNA molecule that is the mirror of the DNA segment being copied

    • If there is a DNA mutation, then it will transfer onto the RNA copy

  • Translation

    • The process of reading RNA information and making a protein in ribosomes

    • If there is a DNA mutation, then this is the phase when the mutation goes from being just in the DNA to actually getting expressed

  • Protein synthesis

    • The process by which genetic information gets turned into protein

    • Makes the wrong protein if a mutation has occurred

  • Trait

    • A physical feature expressed through the genetic makeup

    • Expressed as a disease if negative mutation has occurred and wrong protein made

  • Alzheimer's

    • A disease impairing neuron communication, thought to be caused by amyloid precursor protein

Reflection

Yet another successful project, although it felt more time constrained than it actually was, due to the looming stress of finals. Conscientious Learner ability was key to this project, since we had to get an understanding of each process in causing a genetic disease, from mutation to expression. Also, this was a good group, so I would say we all demonstrated good Character. However, considering we had to make a slideshow together, Communication was slightly lacking. Likewise, Collaboration was also sub-par for a project of this nature.