Bioinformatics

Aim

The course aims to provide fundamental knowledge in bioinformatics, specifically regarding theories and practical applications of computer-based methods for analyzing nucleotide and protein sequences, as well as studying protein structures. It covers both theoretical understanding and practical skills in using these methods. The course also aims to illustrate the development of the field through examples from the forefront of research.

After completing the course, you should be able to:

• Search, analyze, and interpret data from relevant biological databases
• Use and interpret results from bioinformatic methods
• Plan for new bioinformatics problems and solve them by combining the tools learned in the course.

Content

Computer-based methods for analyzing nucleotide and protein sequences and for studying the structure of proteins. Databases and methods for database searches (e.g. UniProt and PDB), Sequence comparisons, sequence alignment (RNA,DNA, and protein), multiple sequence comparisons and multiple sequence alignment, sequence patterns, evolution, protein domains, and protein structure. Use of bioinformatic tools for functional characterization of genes and proteins. Protein structure and molecular modeling. Parts of the course highlight both the underlying theoretical models and biological and biotechnological applications of the methods and computer programs presented.