Molecular methods

Molecular Methods are a set of techniques used in molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics to study the structure and function of molecules. These methods are fundamental to research in these fields and have applications in various areas such as medicine, forensics, and biotechnology.

History

The development of molecular methods began in the mid-20th century with the discovery of the DNA structure by James Watson and Francis Crick. This discovery paved the way for the development of techniques to manipulate and analyze DNA, such as DNA sequencing and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

Techniques

DNA Sequencing

DNA sequencing is a technique used to determine the precise order of nucleotides within a DNA molecule. It includes any method or technology that is used to determine the order of the four bases: adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine.

Polymerase Chain Reaction

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a method widely used to rapidly make millions to billions of copies of a specific DNA sample, allowing scientists to take a very small sample of DNA and amplify it to a large enough amount to study in detail.

Gel Electrophoresis

Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA, RNA, or protein molecules based on their size and charge. This method involves the molecules moving through a gel matrix under the influence of an electric field.

Applications

Molecular methods have a wide range of applications in various fields. In medicine, they are used in genetic testing, disease diagnosis, and drug development. In forensics, they are used in DNA profiling and crime scene investigation. In biotechnology, they are used in genetic engineering and the production of biopharmaceuticals.

See Also

• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Biotechnology