Learn To Code! Introduction to Python for Detecting Diseases

Bioinformatics is a field dedicated to biological data analysis: an interface between computers and human health. Scientists use powerful computers to create simulations of biological activity and process large data sets, making large and complex data sets easy to understand and analyze. In this experiment, students will learn how bioinformaticians process gene data, how they make sense of gene behavior, and what happens genotypically when a mutation occurs in a DNA sequence. First, students will be introduced to the basics of the coding language Python and will then use these skills to identify a SNP in a simulated patient's DNA. This kit is designed for beginners, with no previous knowledge of coding necessary. • Introduce students to this expanding, essential, and exciting field of biology • Learn to code in the popular programming language Python • Master 15 fundamental coding skills including loops, if statements, and libraries • Create a program that analyzes DNA sequence data and identifies mutations responsible for sickle cell disease