HSLS Update

New Molecular Biology and Genetics Workshops

HSLS is offering new hands-on molecular biology and genetics resources classes.

Introduction to VectorNTI is designed to get you started using the Vector NTI software package. This integrated sequence analysis and data management software allows molecular biologists to analyze, manipulate, construct, store, and manage complex biological molecules. The package consists of three independent, yet interconnected components:

• Vector NTI core, a molecular biology sequence manipulation program;
• Align X, a multiple sequence alignment program;
• BioAnnotator, a comprehensive set of protein and nucleic acid sequence analysis tools.

The workshop will also provide an overview of the Vector NTI graphical user interface including Vector NTI Explorer, the Molecule Viewer, and instructions for using the most common features and functions of the software. Plan to attend on either September 1, or October 6, 2004, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in Falk Library CMC Classroom 2.

Genetic Variations Resources will be offered on September 29, 2004 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in Falk Library CMC Classroom 2. Included in this workshop are genetic variations resources available via the Internet, with a focus on Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Basic concepts behind different forms of genetic variations, introduction to variation databases (NCBI dbSNP and OMIM), database searching strategies, and the use of bioinformatics tools for predictive functional analysis of mutations will be discussed.

Advance registration is not required. Workshops are offered on a first-come, first-served basis until the class is full.