Abstract
Nucleic acids are essential for all forms of life. Although the structure of the human genome is relatively simple, its function is incredibly complex. The human genome codes for the entire blueprint for an individual. Using the instructions coded by DNA, RNA mediates the processes of transcription and translation to produce protein molecules that carry out cellular functions. These processes are highly regulated in order to produce the right proteins at the right time in the right cells to carry out all of the functions necessary to maintain life.
This chapter reviews basic concepts in molecular biology and nucleic acid chemistry to provide an understanding of the nomenclature and vocabulary required to comprehend molecular testing. The normal structure and cellular functions of nucleic acids are reviewed, providing a foundation for the discussion of molecular methods used in the clinical molecular laboratory. In addition, this chapter begins the discussion of how deviations from normal structure and function result in disease, with special attention given to dermatologic disease.
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Hosler, G.A., Murphy, K.M. (2014). Basics of Nucleic Acids and Molecular Biology. In: Molecular Diagnostics for Dermatology. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-54066-0_2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-54066-0_2
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