We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Molecular Biology - Part 1

DNA Replication and Repair

Stephen P. Bell, Tania A. Baker, Mary Ellen Wiltrout, Nathaniel Schafheimer, and Sera Thornton

You’re acquainted with your DNA, but did you know that your cells synthesize enough DNA during your lifetime to stretch a lightyear in length? How does the cellular machinery accomplish such a feat without making more mistakes than you can survive? Why isn’t the incidence of cancer even higher than it is? And, if the DNA in each and every cell is two meters long, how is this genetic material compacted to fit inside the cell nucleus without becoming a tangled mess?

Are you ready to go beyond the “what" of scientific information presented in textbooks and explore how scientists deduce the details of these molecular models?

Take a behind-the-scenes look at modern molecular genetics, from the classic experimental events that identified the proteins involved in DNA replication and repair to cutting-edge assays that apply the power of genome sequencing. Do you feel confident in your ability to design molecular biology experiments and interpret data from them? We've designed the problems in this course to build your experimental design and data analysis skills.

Let’s explore the limits of our current knowledge about the replication machinery and pathways that protect the fidelity of DNA synthesis. If you are up for the challenge, join us in 7.28x Part 1: DNA Replication and Repair.

Follow the latest news from MITx Biology @MITxBio on Twitter .

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to compare and contrast the mechanisms of dna replication in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
How to describe several enzymatic mechanisms that the cell uses to repair or tolerate dna damage
How to analyze protein structures to infer functional information

How to designmethods for the best experiment to test a hypothesis related to dna replication or repair proteins
How to interpret data from dna replication and repair experiments

How to compare and contrast the mechanisms of dna replication in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
How to describe several enzymatic mechanisms that the cell uses to repair or tolerate dna damage
How to analyze protein structures to infer functional information
How to designmethods for the best experiment to test a hypothesis related to dna replication or repair proteins
How to interpret data from dna replication and repair experiments

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces students to concepts and technologies relevant to molecular biology

Relevant to learners interested in biotechnology and genetics

Led by instructors with expertise in genetics and molecular biology

Offers the chance to go beyond the basic understanding of DNA

Delves into topics like DNA replication, repair, and data analysis methods

May not be suitable for beginners or those without a foundation in biology

Save this course

Save Molecular Biology - Part 1: DNA Replication and Repair to your list so you can find it easily later:

Save

Reviews summary

Molecular bio: dna replication i

Learners say this course is a challenging but rewarding study of the detailed processes involved in DNA replication. Professor Bell's engaging and detailed lectures are accompanied by helpful animated illustrations and thought-provoking quizzes that reinforce key concepts. Students with some foundational knowledge in biology and chemistry will find this course accessible and insightful, particularly if they have also taken 7.00x and 7.05x from MITx Biology.

The course is well-structured and accessible for learners who have taken introductory biology and chemistry courses.

"The material explained in a way that makes it very interesting."

"I am working on my Msc in microbiology and wanted to upgrade my molecular biology knowledge since my theme has to do with genetic engineering in bacteria. I am at week 3 and am loving it, the professor, the material and the way you have to think in quizes is perfect."

While not strictly required, students with a background in biology and basic chemistry will find the material easier to follow.

"I have a biology major, this course is helping me a lot regarding understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in events happening in the cell nucleus or with bacterial DNA."

"I liked learning about the different assays, which will be really helpful in research carrier. Although I would have liked more of detailed mechanisms of Double strand break repair, especially for eukaryotic cases."

The course provides a comprehensive overview of the technical assays used in DNA replication research, giving students valuable insights into the field.

"This course is definitely one of the best experiences I've had. I can certainly feel that I'm going to use what I've learned in this course in real research applications."

"The quizzes are a prime example of that, and it taught me to think more logically and clearly."

"Challenging, and very thought provoking-demanding. Some of the most intricate and interesting biology I have ever encountered."

"This class has been interesting, informative and user friendly. There are a good amount of well designed questions to test your knowledge as you go along as well as quizzes to help solidify your knowledge."

"I am enjoying this course. I loved the course Intro to Biology by Eric Landers. I have a business major background, but recently developed an interest in Biology, and research."

The course includes thought-provoking quizzes and problem sets that challenge learners to apply their knowledge.

"The quizzes are also great as they allow you to both reinforce and extend the knowledge you have gained from the lecture."

"This is a fascinating course, extremely well designed with excellent teaching. It really gives you a feeling for how basic research into the fundamentals of human biology is being done and how knowledge is being acquired and extended, and what questions arise on the horizon."

Professor Bell's clear explanations and engaging lectures make complex concepts easy to grasp. The course staff is also friendly and responsive.

"The lectures are detailed and interesting, and the quizzes are interesting to solve."

"I found the videos clear and the questions and quizzes fun. I posted one question which I hope will be answered."

"This was the best MOOC experience in my life. Professor Bell is really the best of his area and he has a real good way of connecting his students (even if he cannot see them). I am looking forward to the next lesson when one is over!"

"The Course is build very nice, it is very understandable also if your mother tongue is not English. I like the pace and also the content a lot! I have learned already a lot which i can incorporate into my daily work."

"Very intense but extremely interesting! I loved the way not only the cool parts about the biological mechanisms were taught, but also all the assays to find out about these mechanisms. Biology has a lot of logic and I liked this clean aspect of it that MIT reveals."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Molecular Biology - Part 1: DNA Replication and Repair with these activities:

Interactive Online Tutorials on DNA Replication and Repair

Show steps

Enhance your understanding of DNA replication and repair through interactive online tutorials led by experts.

Browse courses on DNA Replication

Show steps

Search for reputable online tutorials on DNA replication and repair.
Select a tutorial that aligns with your learning style and objectives.
Follow the instructions and complete the interactive exercises.

Review Molecular Biology of the Cell

Show steps

Review key concepts of molecular biology, including DNA replication and repair, to strengthen your understanding of the course material.

View Molecular Biology of the Cell on Amazon

Show steps

Read the assigned chapters in the textbook.
Summarize the main concepts covered in each chapter.
Review figures and tables to reinforce your understanding of the material.

DNA Replication and Repair Practice Problems

Show steps

Solve practice problems to strengthen your understanding of DNA replication and repair mechanisms.

Browse courses on DNA Replication

Show steps

Access online practice problems or download worksheets.
Attempt to solve the problems самостоятельно.
Check your answers against provided solutions.
Review incorrect answers to identify areas for improvement.

Three other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all six activities

Design an Experiment to Test a Hypothesis

Show steps

Apply your knowledge of DNA replication and repair to design an experiment that tests a specific hypothesis.

Browse courses on Experimental Design

Show steps

Brainstorm a hypothesis related to DNA replication or repair.
Research background information to support your hypothesis.
Design a detailed experimental protocol.
Identify necessary materials and equipment.
Outline data collection and analysis methods.

Attend a Workshop on Advanced DNA Sequencing Techniques

Show steps

Gain hands-on experience and learn about cutting-edge DNA sequencing techniques relevant to DNA replication and repair research.

Browse courses on DNA Sequencing

Show steps

Identify relevant workshops in your area or online.
Register for the workshop and prepare accordingly.
Actively participate in the workshop and take notes.

Develop a Computational Model of DNA Replication

Show steps

Apply computational techniques to simulate and analyze DNA replication mechanisms to gain deeper insights.

Show steps

Learn about computational modeling techniques.
Design a computational model of DNA replication.
Implement the model using a programming language.
Run simulations and analyze the results.
Refine the model based on the analysis.

Career center

Learners who complete Molecular Biology - Part 1: DNA Replication and Repair will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Molecular Biologist

A Molecular Biologist studies the structure and function of biological molecules, including DNA. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Molecular Biologist. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Molecular Biologist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Molecular Biologist

Biochemist

A Biochemist studies the chemical processes that occur in living organisms, including the replication and repair of DNA. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Biochemist. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Biochemist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biochemist

Bioinformatician

A Bioinformatician uses computational methods to analyze biological data. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Bioinformatician. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Bioinformatician.

See salaries and explore the career path for Bioinformatician

Geneticist

A Geneticist studies the inheritance and variation of genes. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Geneticist. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Geneticist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geneticist

Computational Biologist

A Computational Biologist uses computational methods to study biological systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Computational Biologist. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Computational Biologist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computational Biologist

Biophysicist

A Biophysicist studies the physical principles that govern biological systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Biophysicist. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Biophysicist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biophysicist

Research Scientist

A Research Scientist conducts research in a specific field of science. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Research Scientist who wants to specialize in genetics or molecular biology. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Research Scientist in the field of genetics or molecular biology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Science Teacher

A Science Teacher teaches science to students. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the basics of genetics and molecular biology. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Science Teacher.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Teacher

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer writes technical documentation, such as user manuals and white papers. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the technical details of genetic and molecular biology products and services. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Technical Writer in the field of genetics or molecular biology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Genetic Counselor

A Genetic Counselor provides information and support to individuals and families who are affected by genetic disorders. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the causes and inheritance of genetic disorders. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Genetic Counselor.

See salaries and explore the career path for Genetic Counselor

Science Writer

A Science Writer communicates scientific information to the public. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the latest advances in genetics and molecular biology. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Science Writer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer

Patent Attorney

A Patent Attorney helps clients obtain and protect patents for their inventions. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the patentability of inventions in the field of genetics and molecular biology. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Patent Attorney.

See salaries and explore the career path for Patent Attorney

Medical Scientist

A Medical Scientist conducts research on the causes and treatment of diseases. This course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which would be valuable for a Medical Scientist. The course also covers the analysis of protein structures, which is important for understanding the function of DNA replication and repair proteins. Overall, this course would be very helpful for someone who wants to pursue a career as a Medical Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Scientist

Physician

A Physician diagnoses and treats diseases. This course may be useful for a Physician who wants to specialize in genetics or molecular biology. The course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the causes and treatment of genetic diseases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician

Nurse

A Nurse provides care to patients. This course may be useful for a Nurse who wants to specialize in genetics or molecular biology. The course provides a strong foundation in the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, which are important for understanding the causes and treatment of genetic diseases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nurse

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Molecular Biology - Part 1: DNA Replication and Repair.

Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition) EBook...

Save

This widely-used textbook covers a comprehensive range of topics in molecular biology, including DNA replication and repair. It is well-written and includes clear explanations of complex concepts.

Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition) EBook...

Paperback

Check price

Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition) EBook...

Kindle Edition

Check price

The DNA Replication-Repair Interface

Save

This textbook provides a detailed overview of DNA replication and repair, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms involved.

The DNA Replication-Repair Interface (ISSN)

Kindle Edition with Audio/Video

$$$$

Abeloff's Clinical Oncology E-Book

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of DNA replication and repair. It is written by an expert in the field and is well-suited for students and researchers alike.

Abeloff's Clinical Oncology Review E-Book

Kindle Edition

$$$