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A 3D Model of Double-Helical DNA Showing Variable Chemical Details

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Susan G. Cady

Clover, VA 24534-0262

J. Chem. Educ., 2005, 82 (1), p 79

DOI: 10.1021/ed082p79

Publication Date (Web): January 1, 2005

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

Since the first DNA model was created ≈50 years ago using molecular models, students and teachers have been building simplified DNA models from various practical materials. A 3D double-helical DNA model, made by placing beads on a wire and stringing beads through holes in plastic canvas, is described. Suggestions are given to enhance the basic helical frame to show the shapes and sizes of the nitrogenous base rings, 3′ and 5′ chain termini, and base pair hydrogen bonding. Students can incorporate random or real gene sequence data into their models. One example of a gene sequence, for the protein oxytocin, is given. Left-handed Z-DNA, as well as right-handed A-DNA and B-DNA models can be constructed. Aimed for use in high school science classes, it takes 2–3 hours to complete DNA models with 30 labeled base pairs. Photos of oxytocin models are included. The size of this sturdy model is appropriate for visually-impaired students to feel the helical shape and read the genetic code in Braille. This model is inexpensive so each student can make his or her own model. Model building reinforces the student’s understanding of how the components of DNA—the sugar, phosphate, and N-base rings—are positioned three dimensionally to form a double helix.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Biochemistry

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Biotechnology

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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).

DNA Structure and Supercoiling: Ribbons and a Yo-Yo Model
J. David Van Horn
Journal of Chemical Education2011 88 (9), 1264-1267
- DNA Structure and Supercoiling: Ribbons and a Yo-Yo Model
  J. David Van Horn
  Journal of Chemical Education2011 88 (9), 1264-1267
  The double-helical structure of DNA is a pop cultural icon. Images of the DNA molecule appear in newspapers, popular journals, and advertisements. In addition to scientific instrument sales, the aura surrounding the central molecule of life has been used ...
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