1953/2003 50 years of the Double Helix

On April 25th 1953 Drs Watson and Crick described the structure of DNA in the journal Nature. This momentous discovery, which was the culmination of research by Medical Research Council scientists working in London and Cambridge, was one of the most significant landmarks of 20th century science. It heralded a new era of molecular biology.

To mark the 50th anniversary the Medical Research Council,The Royal Society and Nature have joined forces to co-ordinate a programme of events in 2003.

DNA's structure revealed how it could carry genetic information and pass it from one generation to the next, laying the groundwork for an explosion of genetics research. Scientists worldwide built on the discovery to show how the DNA code directs synthesis of proteins, the structural and functional components of all living organisms, and how DNA mutations cause genetic diseases. Advances in DNA analysis methods enabled scientists to read the genetic code with increasing rapidity, find the faulty genes responsible for many diseases, and more recently to describe in complete detail all the genes (the genome) of organisms ranging from bacteria and plants to human beings.

DNA research provides new insight into the mysteries of development and the causes of disease, and is leading to new ways to assess risks to human health and to diagnose, prevent and treat human, animal and plant diseases.

It has sparked a biotechnology revolution. Scientists can design new drugs against particular disease causing targets and tailor them to suit genetically different patients. Genetic modifications of other organisms can produce useful pharmaceutical, and commercial products, improve plant and livestock varieties, and create animal models of human genetic disease.

Studies of DNA from archaeological specimens are providing new evidence about human history, while population screening can reveal genetic differences that make some people more prone to particular genetic diseases than others. DNA analysis is routinely used to identify criminals and human remains, and to establish family relationships.

Amongst the many exciting activities will be Young Persons Science Forums. Eleven regional forums will take place throughout the United Kingdom during February 2003, culminating in a national forum in London in April.

School children aged between twelve and sixteen will be invited to come along for the day, where they will get the chance to learn about everything from DNA's role in helping endangered species to xenotransplantation from real scientists working in the field. The will be invited to share their thoughts on Jurassic Park and the boy in the bubble and be given a glimpse of what the future might hold.

Other events include a celebratory dinner at the Guildhall, an exhibition of art work inspired by the work of Watson, Crick, Wilkins and Franklin, a roving exhibition on DNA in your garden, a play about genetics, Life is what you make it, and a science writing competition.

These are just a few examples of the events and activities planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary. For further information please contact Charlotte Taylor at the Medical Research Council by email at charlotte.taylor@headoffice.ac.uk.