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Lost Command

Reviewing the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

By Michele M. Cox

Lost Command


 

Abstract

This case study reviews the central dogma of molecular biology and the mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) pathway.  Four biology students are tasked with identifying a genetic disorder, specifically I-cell disease (mucolipidosis type II) and its pathophysiology for a group presentation.  Over the course of their ensuing conversation, they review patterns of inheritance, the process of protein synthesis, protein translocation, and bone remodeling; they also make connections to histological, radiographical, and hematological results. To complete the case, students are expected to have a basic knowledge of cellular organelles and their functions and protein synthesis. The case consists of five sections, one of which, Part IV, has two versions. “Part IV – Conclusion” makes the case suitable for lower-level undergraduate students taking courses in general biology, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, or human health and disease. The alternative “Part IV – Conclusion (Extended Version)” makes the case suitable for upper-level undergraduate students in cell or molecular biology courses.

   

Date Posted

04/29/2025

Overview

Objectives

  • Distinguish between the terms gene and allele, dominant and recessive, genotype and phenotype, and homozygous and heterozygous.
  • Draw a pedigree using standard symbols.
  • Draw and assign genotypes to family members.
  • Identify structural differences between DNA and RNA.
  • Determine the complementary DNA or RNA sequence based on complementary base pairing when given a DNA sequence.
  • Determine the amino acid sequence based on complementary base pairing when given either a DNA or RNA sequence.
  • Identify the organelles of the secretory pathway and describe their functions.
  • Describe the process of bone remodeling and how it is regulated.

Keywords

I-cell disease; inclusion-cell disease; mucolipidosis type II; mannose-6-phosphate; M6P; central dogma; transcription; translation; protein synthesis; translocation; bone remodeling; lysosomal storage disease; LSD

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Cell Biology
Molecular Biology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Directed, Discussion

 

 

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