Bioinformatics: Overview, Genomics, Proteomics, Data Analysis

What is Bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics is the field which comprises biology, computer science and information technology to analyze and interpret biological data which is useful for several purposes like genomic sequencing metabolism, comparative genomics and also in the discovery of drugs. Some basic data about bioinformatics is discussed below:

• Bioinformatics utilises data such as protein data Bank or biological information, which is derived from databases like Genbank or UniProt.

• There are several machines which are used to predict biological phenomena and improve the analysis of the data.

• Bio and format text also integrates the knowledge of biology mathematics statistics and computer science to give accurate data analysis.

• Some of the important Tools and techniques are used in the field of bioinformatics which helps in solving complex biological data for better interpretation and understanding.

History of Bioinformatics

Two Dutch scientists, Ben Hesper and Paulien Hogeweg, coined the phrase for the first time in 1970. We discover bioinformatics as a study of information processes in the living world in their journals and records. Some historical context about Bioinformatics is discussed below:

Applications of Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics has its applications in the extraction of data from the information gathered from the natural world. It is used in a wide range of industries, including 3D image processing, medication research, image analysis, and 3D modelling of living cells. Some of the major Applications of Bioinformatics are discussed below:

• Human health and diseases uses bioinformatics in the most significant way because it primarily relies on its data to develop treatments for contagious and deadly diseases.

• The primary use of bioinformatics is to simplify and increase the accessibility of understanding natural processes.

• The application of this branch is found in evolutionary theory.

• Bioinformatics is also used in microbial examination.

• Bioinformatics helps in increasing the knowledge about the structure of proteins.

• There is preserving and restoring biotechnological data in the bioinformatics field.

• Understanding crop trends, pest management, and crop management is important in agriculture.

Uses of Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics has several uses. Bioinformatics is used to gather data from the biological world. It is used to create technologies that help us better comprehend our surroundings. The data collected is made easier to use.

Bioinformatics helps in the development of strategies for utilizing this data for practical purposes. As a result, this sector is extremely important in research and development. We can observe its effects in a lot of areas, which adequately emphasizes the significance and breadth of bioinformatics applications.

Tools and Techniques in Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics uses software programs that are designed for extracting information from a mass of biological databases and to carry out analysis. Some commonly used tools are:

Biological Databases: This usually contains genomic, proteomic and metabolic data. The data include nucleotide sequences of genes of amino acids. Examples include EMBL, NDB, ENtrez/Genome

BLAST: It stands for Basic Local Alignment Search Tool. It enables a researcher to compare a query sequence with a database of sequence.

FASTA: It stands for Fast-All. It is a DNA and protein sequence alignment software. It is used for fast protein or nucleotide comparison.

GenBank: It is a publicly available database that stores genetic sequences submitted by researchers worldwide.

Importance of Bioinformatics in Modern Biology

Molecular Medicine: The human genome project will have profound effects on the fields of biomedical research and clinical medicine. This allows scientists to locate the gene associated with diseases and design preventative tests for better diagnosis and treatment.

Personalised Medicine: Clinical medicine will become more personalised with the development of pharmacogenomics. It is the study of how an individual’s genetic inheritance affects the body’s response to drugs.

Drug Development: With an improved understanding of disease mechanisms and using computational tools to identify new drug targets, more specific medicines can be developed. These highly specific drugs will have fewer side effects compared to today’s medicine.

Gene Therapy: It is the approach used to treat, cure and even prevent disease by changing the expression of genes. Currently, this is in the initial stage with clinical trials.

Bioinformatics NEET MCQs

Q1. Scientists identified about 1.4 million locations where single base DNA differences occur in humans termed as:

1. Single nucleotide polymorphism

2. Multi-nucleotide polymorphism

3. Base – polymorphism

4. None of these

Correct answer: 1) Single nucleotide polymorphism

Explanation:

Feature of the Human genome: Scientists have identified about 1.4 million locations where single-base DNA differences (SNPS-single nucleotide polymorphism) occur in humans. The project successfully identified the sequence of approximately 3 billion DNA base pairs and an estimated 20,000-25,000 human genes. This collaborative effort revolutionized biology and medicine by providing a comprehensive blueprint of human genetics, enabling advances in understanding genetic diseases, personalized medicine, and evolutionary biology. The HGP also fostered the development of new technologies and bioinformatics tools, transforming how genetic research is conducted.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1) Single nucleotide polymorphism.

Q2. In history of biology, human genome project led to the development of:

1. Biotechnology

2. Biomonitoring

3. Bioinformatics

4. Biosystematics

Correct answer: 3) Bioinformatics

Explanation:

Application of Human Genome Project -

Deriving meaningful knowledge from DNA sequences will define research through the coming decade leading to our understanding of biological systems.

To identify all the approximately 20,000 - 25,000 genes in human DNA

Store all gene-related data / Information in the database and improve tools for data analysis. Transfer related technologies to other sectors such as industries. This project led to the development of bioinformatics which is the union of mathematical, statistical, and computational methods to solve biological problems.

Hence, the correct answer is option 3) bioinformatics.

Q3. Which is the basis of genetic mapping of the human genome as well as DNA finger printing?

1. Single nucleotide polymorphism

2. Polymorphism and hnRNA sequence

3. Polymorphism in RNA sequence

4. Polymorphism in DNA sequence

Correct answer: 4) Polymorphism in DNA sequence

Explanation:

Polymorphism in the DNA sequence refers to the occurrence of multiple forms or variations of a particular gene or genetic marker within a population. These variations can be single nucleotide changes (single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs) or larger structural variations. DNA polymorphism is the basis for genetic mapping of the human genome, as identifying and tracking these variations helps scientists map genes to specific locations on chromosomes. Additionally, DNA polymorphisms are essential for DNA fingerprinting, a technique used in forensics and paternity testing, where unique patterns of genetic variation are compared to identify individuals. Polymorphisms serve as markers that allow researchers and forensic experts to distinguish between different individuals based on their genetic makeup.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) Polymorphism in DNA sequence.

Also Read

• MCQs on Human Genome Project

• Genetic Code and Mutation

• DNA Fingering Printing

FAQs on Bioinformatics

What is bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field that combines biology, computer science, and mathematics. It helps to collect, store, analyze, and interpret biological data, especially large datasets like DNA and protein sequences. Bioinformatics is an emerging branch of biology which has many practical applications in different fields of biology and medicine.

Who coined the term bioinformatics?

The term bioinformatics was first coined by Paulien Hogeweg and Ben Hesper in 1970, referring to the use of computational approaches to study biological systems. The word bioinformatics is derived from two words: ‘Bio’ means biology and ‘informatics’ (a French word) meaning data processing.

What are the applications of bioinformatics?

• It is used in primer designing.

• It used to predict the function of gene products.

• It is used in designing new medicines using computer simulations.

• It is used in identifying genetic mutations linked to disorders.

• It is used in the field of agriculture for improving crops and livestock by genetic analysis.

What are the uses of bioinformatics?

• Storing and managing huge biological databases.

• Predicting the structure and function of proteins.

• Comparing genetic material across species for evolutionary studies.

• Identifying potential drug targets in pathogens and development of new drugs