The structure of DNA: DNA is a double helix formed by base pairs attached to a sugar-phosphate backbone. (Image courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.)
Instructor(s)
Prof. Shuguang Zhang
MIT Course Number
7.A12
As Taught In
Fall 2005
Level
Undergraduate
Course Description
Course Description
Since the discovery of the structure of the DNA double helix in 1953 by Watson and Crick, the information on detailed molecular structures of DNA and RNA, namely, the foundation of genetic material, has expanded rapidly. This discovery is the beginning of the "Big Bang" of molecular biology and biotechnology. In this seminar, students discuss, from a historical perspective and current developments, the importance of pursuing the detailed structural basis of genetic materials.