By: Andini Nurfatimah Karim, M.Sc.
Molecular biology is a branch of science that studies the mechanisms or processes occurring in living organisms at the molecular level. Within the cells of living organisms, there are genetic material molecules that carry the hereditary information passed on to their offspring. Supported by environmental factors, this genetic makeup, or genotype, is manifested in the observable characteristics, or phenotype. One application of molecular biology is diagnostic laboratory testing. This testing can be utilized for various purposes such as prognosis (prediction) or diagnosis (detection) of diseases, clinical trials for drug development, forensic analysis, genetic potential screening, genomic research, etc.
The first step in a molecular biology test panel is the extraction of genetic material in the form of DNA/RNA. DNA/RNA extraction is a technique for removing DNA/RNA from the cell nucleus or other organelles, to separate pure DNA/RNA from unwanted components such as proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, etc. DNA/RNA extraction consists of four main stages: lysis, binding, washing, and elution. Lysis, or breaking down, functions to release DNA/RNA from the cell nucleus or other organelles. Binding is used to separate pure DNA/RNA from unwanted cellular components. Washing aims to clean DNA/RNA from contaminants. Finally, elution involves adding a buffer solution to dissolve the resulting DNA/RNA.
Next, the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique for amplifying or multiplying specific DNA segments in vitro. These DNA segments act as genetic markers that are the objects of examination or research. Broadly, PCR consists of three stages: denaturation, annealing, and extension. Denaturation or heating is done to separate the double-stranded DNA template into single stranded. Annealing or attaching functions to bind short DNA molecules called primers to the target DNA sites. Extension involves elongating from the primer end to produce a copy of DNA from the initial DNA template. These three stages are repeated to exponentially replicate DNA, resulting in millions to billions of DNA copies.
Subsequently, Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) is a DNA profiling technique for identifying samples based on their DNA profiles. This method is based on cutting DNA fragments with restriction enzymes, producing varying fragment sizes that illustrate polymorphisms or genetic variations. The genome, or the entire genetic information possessed by individuals within and between species, has distinct characteristics. Additionally, each restriction enzyme targets different cutting areas on the DNA sequence. The enzyme digestion results are visualized using gel electrophoresis, a method of separating DNA fragments based on their size in an electric field. This electrophoresis forms unique DNA profile bands that can be identified for diagnostic analysis needs.
Such is the basis of molecular biology laboratory test panels that can be utilized in various industries such as healthcare, research and technology, food, pharmaceuticals, livestock, etc. At PT MOOSA GENETIKA FARMINDO, these tests are conducted to screen livestock potential related to productivity, such as the ability to produce milk and meat, the quality of the milk or meat, reproduction, heat stress resistance, disease immunity, and more. DNA tests are meticulously conducted based on research carried out in the laboratory, and the results are provided to clients as reports and certificates. Further consultation regarding the optimization of genetic potential is supported by a team of experts experienced in their fields.