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Historical Discoveries Of Dna And Genetic Material

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When most people think of DNA, scientists, laboratories, and twisted ladders come to mind. In reality, DNA makes up genetic material, which makes up proteins that form much of the body and perform vital tasks. The study of DNA and genetic material is something more people should be aware of. As a society, knowing how powerful genetic research and technology are holds the possibility to help, or possibly hurt, people now and in the future.
The study of deoxyribonucleic acid, better known as DNA, sounds modern, but in reality has been around for over 150 years. In 1856, Gregor Mendel performed his famous pea plant experiment. This experiment helped determine dominant and recessive traits. Mendel’s work faded for more than 30 years. Based on his research, Reginald Punnett developed Punnett Squares. Punnett Squares predict which traits offspring will inherit based on their parents. In 1885, scientists found chromosomes in cells.
Even though there were many contributing factors, one of the most important discoveries about DNA was made by Francis Crick and James Watson. Francis Crick was born in 1916, in Northampton, England. Early in his life, he studied physics but later turned to biology. He attended University in London and earned his Ph.D in molecular biology in 1954. James Watson was born April 26, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois. He enrolled in the University of Chicago when he was just 15 years old. He earned his Ph.D. when he was 22 by completing studies on bacteriophages.

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