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From: Javier Gonzalez
Date: 03 Sep 2008
Time: 09:57:12 -0400
Remote Name: 72.153.183.163
Bioinformatics is a modern-day discipline made possible by the advent of the computer, and consequently the internet. It relies on one big database with many sub-divisions that is accessible to every science researcher. It is a new field that enhances on the lab-based science that is Biology and allows it to be an information science as well by merging the fields of Biology, Computer Science and Information Technology (Just the Facts: A Basic Introduction to the Science Underlying NCBI Resources). The field mainly seeks to increase our knowledge about Biological processes through a global and unified perspective, one in which many different scientists can add on to the same ideas which can, as a result lead to new hypotheses and experiments and thus strengthening our understanding of them (Just the Facts: A Basic Introduction to the Science Underlying NCBI Resources). The current task of the relatively new discipline involves the construction of genetic and physical maps of genomes, nucleotide and amino acid sequence analysis; gene discovery and the prediction of protein structures. A primary goal of this data analysis is directed towards unraveling the development and function of living things. These and many other fields can all benefit from the bioinformatics approach (Encyclopedia of Life Sciences, Volume 3; 2002 Macmillan Ltd). Future advances in the various areas of Bioinformatics also hold the promise of revolutionizing biological understanding and contributing to progress in preventing and treating diseases. Proponents of biotechnology believe that we are on the verge of controlling the coding of living things, as well as breakthroughs in biomedical engineering, therapeutics, and drug development (Bergeron, B. 2003. Bioinformatics Computing. Preface 1:8-15). As far as we can see, Bioinformatics appears to have no set limit and could potentially help us reach unimaginable heights. As a psychology student, I think Bioinformatics can be very helpful in my future career. This is due to the fact that I will constantly rely on the tracking of information, insertion and analysis of data; processes that will all be enhanced through advances in areas of Bioinformatics and any prior or extra experience that I could have in a related field can prove to be very enriching.