Learn Molecular Genetics visually with interactive simulations. Explore DNA Replication, Gene Expression, Protein Synthesis, Genetic Mutations, and Genomic Technologies with step-by-step animations and real biological data.
Molecular genetics is the field of biology that studies genetics at the molecular level, focusing on the structure and function of genes at the molecular scale. It involves understanding how DNA encodes information, how genes are expressed and regulated, and how genetic variations lead to phenotypic differences.
This discipline combines principles of genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying inheritance, gene expression, DNA replication, recombination, and repair. Modern molecular genetics employs advanced techniques such as gene cloning, sequencing, gene editing (CRISPR), and genomics to understand biological processes at the most fundamental level.
Molecular genetics principles guide diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of genetic diseases and cancer.
Molecular genetics enables crop improvement, livestock breeding, and development of sustainable agricultural practices.
Explore molecular genetics concepts through hands-on interactive simulations
Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence that can occur spontaneously or be induced by external factors. They are the raw material for evolution and can have various effects on an organism's phenotype.
In the simulation below, you can explore different types of mutations and observe their effects on DNA sequences and the resulting proteins.
Tip: Click anywhere on the simulation canvas to apply a random mutation type.
Perform calculations related to molecular genetics concepts
Save your simulation configurations and results, or load previously saved data.
Understanding how molecular genetics differs from and relates to other biological disciplines.
| Aspect | Molecular Genetics | Classical Genetics | Genomics | Biochemistry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus Level | Molecular (DNA, RNA, Proteins) | Organismal (Traits, Inheritance) | Genome-wide (All Genes) | Chemical Processes |
| Techniques | Cloning, Sequencing, PCR | Pedigree Analysis, Crosses | Microarrays, Sequencing | Spectroscopy, Chromatography |
| Scale | Individual Genes | Populations | Entire Genomes | Molecules |
| Applications | Gene Therapy, GMOs | Breeding, Counseling | Personalized Medicine | Drug Development |
| Data Type | Sequences, Mutations | Phenotypes, Ratios | Genomes, Variants | Structures, Pathways |