University of York and Sheffield researchers observe DNA helix connection

DNA double helices atomic force microscopy molecular biology ion bridging genetic research

Researchers from the Universities of York and Sheffield have successfully visualized how DNA double helices connect, resolving a long-standing biological paradox. Because the exterior of DNA carries negative electrical charges, the helices should theoretically repel each other like similar poles of magnets.

Using high-resolution atomic force microscopy, the team observed that the helices overcome this repulsion by precisely aligning their spiral grooves. The connection is stabilized by positively charged ions that act as tiny bridges between the molecules. These findings, published in the journal Nucleic Acids Research, provide direct evidence for a model that scientists have discussed for over 20 years.

Entities

Nucleic Acids Research · University of Sheffield · University of York

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] The findings were published in the journal Nucleic Acids Research. www.leinetal24.de · www.kreiszeitung.de · www.merkur.de
[● 3 SOURCES] Positively charged ions form bridges between DNA molecules to stabilize their contact. www.leinetal24.de · www.kreiszeitung.de · www.merkur.de
[● 3 SOURCES] The research team utilized high-resolution atomic force microscopy to visualize the process. www.leinetal24.de · www.kreiszeitung.de · www.merkur.de
[● 3 SOURCES] DNA double helices connect by precisely aligning their spiral grooves with one another. www.leinetal24.de · www.kreiszeitung.de · www.merkur.de
[● 3 SOURCES] Researchers from the Universities of York and Sheffield have directly observed how DNA double helices connect. www.leinetal24.de · www.kreiszeitung.de · www.merkur.de

Sources

DNA müsste sich wie Magnete abstoßen – Forscher sehen erstmals, wie Doppelhelices zusammenfinden [www.leinetal24.de]

1 day ago

DNA müsste sich wie Magnete abstoßen – Forscher sehen erstmals, wie Doppelhelices zusammenfinden [www.kreiszeitung.de]

1 day ago

DNA müsste sich wie Magnete abstoßen – Forscher sehen erstmals, wie Doppelhelices zusammenfinden [www.merkur.de]

1 day ago