Molecular Biology: What is it?

Molecular biology is a major part of medical biology today; and it’s at the forefront of some ground-breaking industry revelations. 

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death for women worldwide. However, molecular biologist, Dr. Thais Boeira, has just made a discovery that could be instrumental in the reduction of the number of deaths from cervical cancer. This being a new method of detecting and diagnosing human papillomavirus (HPV) that is superior to the methods already available. HPV is commonly recognised as a factor for the development of cervical cancer, so this discovery could be vital in making a positive difference in the future of medical biology.  

Let’s explore what molecular biology is and why it’s important in this ever-evolving sector, and how a medical biology degree can help you contribute to improving people’s health.  

What is Molecular Biology? 

When you think about playing a role in discovering life-saving treatments that are going to nurse people back to full health, there’s no more heart-warming career to get into. But a vital aspect of following the medical biology path is to understand the nature of molecular biology. 

In its broadest sense, molecular biology can be defined as the branch of biology that deals with the structure and function of macromolecules like protein and nucleic acids that are essential to human life.  

Of course, everyone and everything is made from cells. So, if you have a passion for science and love learning about DNA and how it’s unique to each individual person, then molecular biology is something that can open a range of different research opportunities:  

- DNA replication  

- Investigating how proteins act differently in a disease  

- Researching DNA repair mechanisms' potential faults 

- Understanding the role of a protein in a cell 

Why is Molecular Biology Important? 

Molecular biology provides new insights into the nature of genes and proteins as well as defines the relationship between them. It has seen its biggest impact over the last four decades. This is because it has stimulated and prompted research in almost all disciplines of life science. It’s focus on the structure and function of DNA replication and repair mechanisms means that it is instrumental in the future discovery of innovative and ground-breaking medicines and treatments.  

Why Study a Medical Biology Degree?  

Our BSc (Hons) Medical Biology degree at the University of Bolton is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and includes a specific module tailored to molecular and cellular biology. This teaches our students about topics such as: 

- The chromosomal basis of intelligence  

- The molecular basis of inheritance; DNA chemistry, structure, and function 

- Cell division; mitosis and meiosis 

- Gene mutation and natural selection 

- Cell biology 

- Cell structure  

By the time our students graduate, they will have a thorough understanding of how the human body works, and the importance of the need to continuously develop and improve ways to diagnose and treat diseases; something that is vital to improving both the length and the quality of our lives. Throughout their studies, our students are also supported by a team of industry expert lecturers, who will educate students on the key principles, concepts, and applications they will experience in the real world. 

If studying at a leading university for Student Satisfaction* is what you’re looking for, then have a read of our full course details to find out more.  

Come and meet us at an Open Day; see the supportive learning environment that our students love, speak with our passionate lecturers, take a campus tour and see our state-of-the-art facilities; getting a first-hand feel of what #UniAsItShouldBe is all about.  

Please contact us at enquiries@bolton.ac.uk or call on 01204 903807 for more information. 

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