SAB NewsFrom Double Helix to Genome: Honoring 50 Years of DiscoveryPosted 4/14/2003 The Science Advisory Board salutes the 50th anniversary commemorating the discovery of the structure of DNA. In 1953, James D. Watson and Francis Crick demonstrated that DNA records genetic information in the form of a four-letter alphabet. Although their discovery was published as a short article (no more than 900 words), it is considered to be one of the seminal scientific breakthroughs of the 20th century. This significant event is being widely memorialized around the world by leading institutions, scholarly journals and scientific societies. High profile conferences and celebrations are scheduled in the United States, Europe and Australia. "Upon reflection, it is an amazing tribute to two researchers who knew very little chemistry and never did a “conventional” scientific experiment in relation to their discovery," states Dr. Tamara Zemlo, Director of Scientific & Medical Communications for The Science Advisory Board. Rather, Watson and Crick gleaned insights from others and used their colleagues’ results to build models that were almost childlike in their creation. From these models they proposed the now famous helical structure. Dr. Watson will be on site Tuesday, April 15 to discuss his new book, "DNA: The Secret of Life." Since his outstanding scientific contribution, Dr. Watson has been a pioneer in the quest to decipher the biological mysteries of life. His new book details the entire genetic revolution and was published to coincide with the golden anniversary of the elucidation of DNA’s structure. If any of our local SAB members are interested in attending this special event, please contact Molly Scott at (703) 778-3080 x 11 for details. |
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