Bioinformatics

BioInformatics: The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) has developed a search and retrieval system (Entrez) to analyze and access information that integrates nucleotide sequences, protein sequences, macromolecular structures, whole genomes, and scientific literature. NCBI was established in 1988 as a national resource for molecular biology information. NCBI creates public databases, conducts research in computational biology, develops software tools for analyzing genome data, and disseminates biomedical information - all for the better understanding of molecular processes affecting human health and disease. A recent article in The American Biology Teacher (Feb. 2002) describes NCBI as "...a virtual goldmine both in terms of available resources, and treasures yet to be discovered." The article presents a series of educational modules for introducing college students to bioinformatics. Seven modules (more info) covering NCBI resources (Taxonomy, OMIM, GenBank?, PubMed?, BLAST, Genes and Disease, and 3D Structures) have been produced and are currently being used by students in cell biology and biochemistry classes. These seven modules create an educational portal that allows students to access and utilize this comprehensive bioinformatic database.