Finding Hidden Messages in DNA (Bioinformatics I)

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/dna-analysis

Introduction

## Course Review: **Finding Hidden Messages in DNA (Bioinformatics I)** on Coursera ### Overview "Finding Hidden Messages in DNA (Bioinformatics I)" is an exceptional course offered on Coursera that has earned its place as one of the top 50 MOOCs of all time, according to Class Central. This course serves as an entry point into the fascinating world of bioinformatics, blending biology with computational techniques. It promises to unravel the secrets within DNA, guiding learners through computational problems without the necessity of traditional lab work. ### Course Structure The course is designed over five weeks. Each week covers specific topics, providing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with bioinformatics tools and algorithms. 1. **Week 1**: The course kicks off with a warm welcome, introducing learners to two pivotal questions in computational biology: "Where in the Genome Does DNA Replication Begin?" and "Which DNA Patterns Play the Role of Molecular Clocks?" An algorithmic foundation is laid to help students prepare for the problem-solving aspects of genetics. 2. **Week 2**: Students delve deeper into the intricacies of DNA replication. They will learn how the biological processes of replication inform the design of intelligent algorithms that can identify replication origins within bacterial genomes. This knowledge is crucial for anyone interested in understanding how DNA functions at a cellular level. 3. **Week 3**: The course transitions into exploring DNA regulatory motifs. The lesson introduces the concept of molecular clocks, merging biology with an intuitive exploration of external analogies, such as a late-night casino trip with 18th-century French mathematicians, to emphasize the course's approachable style. 4. **Week 4**: In this week, the course leans heavily on randomized algorithms to improve motif-finding techniques. Here, learners get acquainted with how randomness plays a role in discovering hidden patterns within DNA sequences, a fundamental skill for bioinformaticians. 5. **Week 5**: The course culminates in the Bioinformatics Application Challenge, where participants can apply their learning to real biological datasets using motif-finding software. This hands-on experience is invaluable, allowing learners to see the practical implications of their knowledge. ### Learning Experience One of the standout features of this course is the use of engaging content, including humorous bioinformatics cartoons by Randall Christopher, which serve as captivating chapter headers. This unique element makes complex topics more relatable and enjoyable for learners, helping to maintain interest throughout the course. The course provides a balanced mix of theoretical concepts and practical applications, ensuring that students not only learn the mechanics behind bioinformatics but also gain the confidence to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. ### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend **Finding Hidden Messages in DNA (Bioinformatics I)** for anyone interested in the intersection of biology and computing. Whether you are a biology enthusiast, a student, or a professional looking to upskill, this course offers valuable insights and practical skills that are highly relevant in today's data-driven biological research landscape. ### Conclusion With its straightforward approach, dedicated instructors, and comprehensive syllabus, this course is not just a class—it's an invitation to explore the cutting-edge realm of bioinformatics. It perfectly balances rigor with accessibility, making it suitable for learners at various levels. Enroll today and embark on a journey into the hidden world of DNA!

Syllabus

Week 1: Welcome!

Welcome to class!

This course will focus on two questions at the forefront of modern computational biology, along with the algorithmic approaches we will use to solve them in parentheses:

1. Weeks 1-2: Where in the Genome Does DNA Replication Begin? (Algorithmic Warmup)
2. Weeks 3-4: Which DNA Patterns Play the Role of Molecular Clocks? (Randomized Algorithms)

Week 5 will consist of a Bioinformatics Application Challenge in which you will get to apply software for finding DNA motifs to a real biological dataset.

Each of the two chapters in the course is accompanied by a Bioinformatics Cartoon created by Randall Christopher and serving as a chapter header in the Specialization's bestselling print companion. You can find the first chapter's cartoon at the bottom of this message. What does a cryptic message leading to buried treasure have to do with biology? We hope you will join us to find out!

Phillip and Pavel

Welcome to Week 2 of class!

This week, we will examine the biological details of how DNA replication is carried out in the cell. We will then see how to use these details to help us design an intelligent algorithmic approach looking for the replication origin in a bacterial genome.

Welcome to Week 3 of class!

This week, we begin a new chapter, titled "Which DNA Patterns Play the Role of Molecular Clocks?" At the bottom of this message is this week's Bioinformatics Cartoon.  What does a late night casino trip with two 18th Century French mathematicians have in common with finding molecular clocks?  Start learning to find out...

Welcome to Week 4 of class!

Last week, we encountered a few introductory motif-finding algorithms. This week, we will see how to improve upon these motif-finding approaches by designing randomized algorithms that can "roll dice" to find motifs.

Welcome to week 5 of the class! This week, we will apply popular motif-finding software in order to hunt for motifs in a real biological dataset.