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Naeem Mahmood Ashraf

Currently, there is high use of bioinformatics tools in biological studies. This Advance Bioinformatics course includes theory and practical aspects of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation for you. In this course, we have tried to explain the theory and practical steps which are required to perform the above-mentioned bioinformatics techniques. We strongly believe that after having this course, you will be well versed in ligand-protein docking and molecular dynamics simulations.

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Currently, there is high use of bioinformatics tools in biological studies. This Advance Bioinformatics course includes theory and practical aspects of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation for you. In this course, we have tried to explain the theory and practical steps which are required to perform the above-mentioned bioinformatics techniques. We strongly believe that after having this course, you will be well versed in ligand-protein docking and molecular dynamics simulations.

This course is designed to keep the need of biologists in view. We tried to explain every step in a simple and elegant way. Like our previous course, "Learn Bioinformatics From Scratch (Theory & Practical)" in this course, we took start from scratch. So, if you are new in this field then it will be easy for you to move with the flow. There is a total of seven modules with 104 lectures.  In this course, you will learn

(1)  Protein Structural Bioinformatics

(2) Theory of Molecular Dynamics Simulation

(3) Introduction of Linux Environment

(4) Practical Demonstration of Protein Molecular Dynamics Simulation

(5) Ligand-Protein Docking (Theory & Practical)

(6) Practical Demonstration of Ligand-Protein Complex Molecular Dynamics Simulation

(7) Virtual Screening of Ligands with Protein Using Vina

This course is a unique blend of theory and practical. We assure you that after having this course, performing molecular docking and molecular dynamics will be easy for you. We have used open-source software in this course so that you do not need to purchase any expensive software. The tools which are demonstrated in this course are Modeller, I-TASSER, Alpha-Fold (Colab), Auto-dock4, Vina, Patch-Dock These tools are freely available and closely related to the course material, and students will need to sign up for some tools to access it.

So what are you waiting for? Click the enroll button and start this amazing journey. We hope that the content of this course will be worth your money. We assure every possible assistance throughout your learning process. We always respond to Questions and Queries which you will forward to us. We believe that we will grow with you.

                                                                                            Your growth is our growth.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will learn basics of structural bioinformatics including protein structure prediction
  • You will learn basic theory of molecular dynamics simulations and docking
  • You will get basic introduction of linux operating systems and its commands
  • You will have practical demonstration of protein molecular dynamics simulations in gromacs
  • You will learn analysis of md trajectory including rmsd, rmsf, radius of gyration, solvent accessible surface area, total number of hydrogen bonds etc
  • You will have practical demonstration of autodock, vina, cb-dock and patchdock for ligand protein docking
  • You will have practical demonstration of md simulation of ligand-protein complex in gromacs
  • You will learn about virtual screening of drugs (theory and practical)

Syllabus

Important Massage Before Start of The Course
Important Massage from Instructors
In this module, you will learn the protein structure basic and ways to download or predict 3D structure of protein. This module is optional and just for beginners.
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In this quiz, you will check your knowledge of module-1. Good luck with the quiz.

In this quiz, you will check your knowledge of module-2. Good luck with the quiz.

In this quiz, you will check your knowledge of module-3. Good luck with the quiz.

In this quiz, you will check your knowledge of module-4. Good luck with the quiz.

The OpenBabel Website is down nowadays. If you are finding issue with the Openbabel Website then please do not worry. We have added another link in the resoruce file for you to download Openbabel for windows.

In this quiz, you will check your knowledge of module-5. Good luck with the quiz.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Uses open-source software like Modeller, I-TASSER, and AutoDock, allowing learners to gain experience without expensive software licenses
Covers protein structure prediction using AlphaFold via Google Colab, exposing learners to cutting-edge techniques in structural biology
Includes a module on Linux, which is essential for bioinformatics workflows and high-performance computing environments
Explores molecular dynamics simulation using GROMACS, a widely used package in academic research and pharmaceutical development
Requires learners to download and install software, which may pose a challenge for those with limited technical experience
Teaches AutoDock4, which has been superseded by AutoDock Vina, though it remains a useful tool for understanding docking principles

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Reviews summary

Practical guide to docking and md

According to learners, this course offers a strong blend of theory and practical demonstrations in bioinformatics, specifically focusing on molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation using open-source tools like GROMACS and Vina. It is particularly well-suited for biologists and beginners looking to apply computational methods. While many find the hands-on practicals very helpful and a major strength, a notable challenge for some students is navigating the Linux environment and dealing with installation issues. Some reviews mention that while the practical steps are clear, having some prior command-line experience is beneficial. Overall, it is considered a valuable resource for getting started in these complex areas.
Command line skills are beneficial.
"A basic understanding of Linux commands is essential to follow along smoothly."
"While the course introduces Linux, prior experience with the command line would make it much easier."
"Navigating the terminal for GROMACS commands was a steep learning curve on its own."
Good balance of concepts and application.
"The balance between theory lectures and practical exercises was just right for me."
"I liked that the course explained the 'why' behind the steps before showing the 'how' using the software."
"It's great to see the theory applied directly using the free tools provided in the course."
Accessible even for newcomers.
"As a biologist relatively new to computational methods, I found this course very helpful and easy to follow."
"Starts from scratch, which is great for people with no prior computational background in this area."
"Breaks down complex topics into understandable and manageable steps for beginners."
Hands-on labs are highly useful.
"The practical demonstrations on GROMACS and Vina were very useful."
"I really appreciated the step-by-step approach for running simulations."
"The hands-on part helped solidify the concepts I learned in theory."
Setup can be challenging.
"Struggled significantly with the installation of GROMACS on my system, especially on Windows."
"Setting up the Linux environment required more effort than anticipated."
"Some links for software downloads or specific versions mentioned seemed outdated, causing problems initially."

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 Bioinformatics; Learn Docking & Mol Dynamics Simulation with these activities:
Review Protein Structure Basics
Solidify your understanding of protein structure, which is fundamental to molecular docking and dynamics simulations.
Browse courses on Protein Structure
Show steps
  • Review the different levels of protein structure (primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary).
  • Study common protein motifs and domains.
  • Familiarize yourself with methods for determining protein structure (X-ray crystallography, NMR).
Practice Linux Commands
Improve your proficiency with Linux commands, which are essential for running molecular dynamics simulations.
Show steps
  • Set up a Linux virtual machine or use a cloud-based Linux environment.
  • Practice basic commands like `cd`, `ls`, `mkdir`, `rm`, `cp`, and `mv`.
  • Learn how to use pipes and redirection.
Read 'Protein Structure and Function' by David Whitford
Deepen your understanding of protein structure and function, which is crucial for interpreting simulation results.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the chapters related to protein folding and dynamics.
  • Take notes on key concepts and definitions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow GROMACS Tutorials
Gain hands-on experience with GROMACS by following online tutorials for setting up and running simulations.
Show steps
  • Find official GROMACS tutorials or reputable online resources.
  • Work through the tutorials step-by-step, paying attention to the input files and commands.
  • Try modifying the tutorial examples to explore different simulation parameters.
Create a Molecular Dynamics Simulation Workflow Diagram
Reinforce your understanding of the MD simulation process by creating a visual diagram outlining the key steps.
Show steps
  • Review the steps involved in a typical MD simulation workflow.
  • Create a diagram using a drawing tool or presentation software.
  • Include all major steps, such as system setup, energy minimization, equilibration, and production run.
  • Add brief descriptions of each step.
Docking a Known Ligand to a Target Protein
Apply your knowledge by performing a docking simulation of a known ligand to a target protein and comparing the results to experimental data.
Show steps
  • Select a protein-ligand complex with known binding affinity from the PDB.
  • Prepare the protein and ligand structures for docking using appropriate software.
  • Perform docking simulations using AutoDock Vina or CB-Dock.
  • Analyze the docking results and compare the predicted binding affinity to the experimental value.
Read 'Molecular Modeling: Principles and Applications' by Andrew Leach
Gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical principles behind molecular modeling and simulation.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Focus on chapters related to molecular dynamics, docking, and force fields.
  • Take notes on key equations and concepts.

Career center

Learners who complete Bioinformatics; Learn Docking & Mol Dynamics Simulation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Bioinformatics Analyst
A bioinformatics analyst is a research scientist who analyzes biological data using computational tools. The course is well-suited to developing skills needed to perform tasks such as data analysis, molecular docking, and simulations. The course provides a strong foundation in protein structure bioinformatics, a critical area for a bioinformatics analyst. The course also covers essential tools like Modeller, I-TASSER, and Auto-dock, which a bioinformatics analyst will likely use. This course's hands-on approach, using open-source software, gives candidates an advantage. Especially helpful is learning to analyze MD trajectories, performing docking with various tools, and conducting virtual screening, all tasks relevant to a bioinformatics analyst.
Molecular Modeler
Molecular modelers use computational techniques to simulate and visualize the behavior of molecules. If you want to be a molecular modeler, then this course helps build a foundation. The course provides practical experience with molecular dynamics simulations, which are essential for understanding molecular behavior. Given that the course covers the theory behind molecular dynamics as well as practical demonstrations using GROMACS, aspiring molecular modelers can gain a competitive edge. The inclusion of ligand protein docking and virtual screening modules makes this course especially useful for a molecular modeler.
Computational Chemist
Computational chemists apply computational methods to solve chemical problems. As a computational chemist, knowledge of molecular dynamics and docking is critical. This course provides a blend of theory and hands-on experience. The course's explanation of molecular dynamics simulation and docking, combined with experience using Modeller, I-TASSER, and Auto-dock, helps to build a foundation. The practical demonstrations of virtual screening, along with the course's Linux environment introduction, may be useful for a computational chemist.
Drug Discovery Scientist
Drug discovery scientists work to identify and develop new pharmaceutical drugs. The course provides essential skills in molecular docking and virtual screening, both crucial for identifying potential drug candidates. A drug discovery scientist can benefit from this course, as it dives into ligand-protein docking. The course covers a range of drug discovery processes, including protein structure prediction, molecular dynamics simulations, and virtual screening, using tools like Auto-dock and Vina. These are directly applicable to the work of a drug discovery scientist.
Research Scientist
Research scientists design and conduct experiments to investigate scientific phenomena. This course provides an introduction to key bioinformatics techniques. A research scientist may find the molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation components valuable. If you are a research scientist, then this course may provide relevant training. The course, in particular, covers protein structure prediction and analysis, along with the use of tools like GROMACS and Auto-dock. The course's focus on open-source software can be a significant advantage for a research scientist.
Structural Biologist
Structural biologists study the three dimensional structure of biological macromolecules. Aspiring structural biologists can gain a better understanding through this course. The course helps build a foundation in protein structure bioinformatics, covering structure prediction and analysis. A structural biologist may also benefit from the course's practical demonstrations of molecular dynamics simulations and ligand-protein docking. This course may be essential to help you succeed as a structural biologist.
Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze large datasets to extract meaningful insights. As a data scientist, skills in bioinformatics may prove valuable, especially in biological or pharmaceutical contexts. Data scientists may find that this course provides valuable insights into molecular dynamics simulations and docking. This course may also be useful, as it also includes training in Linux and command-line tools. A data scientist may find the virtual screening module and the analysis of MD trajectories particularly helpful.
Biomolecular Engineer
Biomolecular engineers apply engineering principles to biological systems. The course's exploration of molecular dynamics simulations, protein structure, and ligand-protein docking may be useful for biomolecular engineers. This course may give biomolecular engineers a good foundation as they learn to use tools like Modeller, I-TASSER, and GROMACS. This course's virtual screening module may be particularly helpful for a biomolecular engineer.
Software Developer
Software developers design, develop, and test software applications. You may find that this course can improve your understanding of scientific software. As a software developer, understanding the needs of bioinformaticians can be helpful. The course may provide you with insights into the algorithms and tools used in bioinformatics, particularly in molecular docking and simulations. Learning about open-source software and Linux may be useful for a software developer working in scientific computing.
Science Educator
Science educators teach scientific concepts in schools and universities. As a science educator, staying current with bioinformatics tools and techniques can enhance your teaching. The course may be useful because it covers molecular docking, virtual screening, and molecular dynamics simulations. Teaching bioinformatics might be a passion and science educators can gain a better understanding through this course.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory technicians assist scientists in conducting experiments and research. The course may give lab technicians insight into the computational processes often used in collaboration with lab work. A laboratory technician may find the basics of structural bioinformatics and molecular dynamics simulations useful. The course's coverage of tools such as Modeller and Auto-dock may be helpful for a laboratory technician involved in related experiments.
Technical Writer
Technical writers create documentation for technical products and processes. As a technical writer, understanding bioinformatics and its applications can aid in creating accurate and informative documentation. The course may be useful as it provides insights into molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and the use of various bioinformatics tools. Such knowledge may be useful for a technical writer creating documentation for bioinformatics software and methodologies.
Patent Attorney
Patent attorneys advise clients on intellectual property law. As a patent attorney specializing in biotechnology, understanding bioinformatics may be valuable. This course may be useful because it provides an overview of techniques like molecular docking and virtual screening, which are relevant to pharmaceutical and biotechnological inventions. The patent attorney can then better assist clients.
Medical Writer
Medical writers create documents related to healthcare and pharmaceuticals. The course may be helpful as you learn about bioinformatics and its applications in drug discovery. This course may assist medical writers by providing content for regulatory submissions, research reports, and educational materials. The explanation of molecular dynamics simulation and docking may be useful for a medical writer.
Science Journalist
Science journalists report on scientific discoveries and advancements for the general public. To assist with covering stories related to drug discovery and bioinformatics, science journalists may find this course helpful. The course may allow them to better explain the concepts and applications of tools such as Modeller, I-TASSER, and Auto-dock. This course may be beneficial to science journalists.

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Bioinformatics; Learn Docking & Mol Dynamics Simulation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of protein structure and its relationship to function. It covers topics such as protein folding, stability, and dynamics, which are essential for understanding molecular dynamics simulations. While not strictly required, it offers a deeper dive into the underlying principles. This book is commonly used as a textbook in advanced biochemistry courses.
Provides a detailed overview of molecular modeling techniques, including molecular dynamics and docking. It covers the theoretical background and practical applications of these methods. This book is more valuable as additional reading to deepen understanding of the underlying principles. It is often used as a reference text for researchers in computational chemistry and biology.

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