Influenza virus infection is a public health threat worldwide. Genetic sequence mutations are studied to reveal more about the associations between the structure and function of influenza viruses; knowledge that can help the design of influenza vaccines and anti-viral drugs.
The landmark ‘DNA fingerprinting’ paper by Sir Alec Jeffreys was published in Nature in 1985. The technology was used for the first time shortly after it appeared in the prestigious science journal. It helped to solve an immigration dispute.
From the tiniest bug, to the tallest oak tree, and largest mammal, DNA certainly gets around. What is so incredible about this molecule is its similarity in structure and composition in all living things. This article takes a peek inside cells to find out where DNA is found.
Hair color is based on the amount of melanin, or pigmentation, present in the hair. Two types of melanin affect hair color: eumelanin (which can be black or brown) and phaeomelanin. The amount of each type of melanin depends on the expression of a series of genes.
DNA is in an incredible structure. This tightly coiled molecule houses the genes that an organism needs to grow and survive, and packing them all inside a cell’s nucleus is an incredible feat.
The last Russian Tsar and his family met violent deaths at the hands of the Bolsheviks in 1918. For years the whereabouts of their remains were a mystery until nine skeletons were unearthed and DNA tests confirmed that they were the murdered Romanovs. However, two skeletons were missing.
The history of genetics has been created by many brilliant scientists. However, all the attention goes to only a few big names such as Crick and Watson. Oswald Avery is one of the unsung heroes of genetics, and it was his work in 1944 that concluded that DNA transmitted hereditary information.
The Turin Shroud is probably the most controversial religious relic in the world. It’s believed by some to be the burial cloth of Christ. Could DNA evidence solve the mystery of the shroud once and for all or just add to the puzzle?
Proteins are the building blocks of the cell. They perform many critical functions that are needed for survival. Their manufacture starts in the nucleus when they are molecules of DNA. This article looks at the process of protein synthesis.
Bigfoot has been busy lately. Hundreds of eyewitness accounts, videos, photographs and tracks have been recorded - this creature certainly isn’t shy. But does it really exist? There is no conclusive proof at the moment, but DNA testing might be able to give us the answer.
