SAS SCIENTISTS CREATED AN ELASTIC DNA MODEL
DNA carries the genetic information of all living organisms and as such is one of the most important natural molecules. Nevertheless, it is difficult to find a three-dimensional model that could be grasped in the hands and on which the structural and mechanical properties of DNA could be truthfully shown. Polymer scientists from the Slovak Academy of Sciences have created a three-dimensional elastic model that can be helpful in clarifying the relationships between the structure, mechanical properties and biological functions of DNA.
"Currently, there are various demonstrators, molecular kits and 3D printed models, but they often incorrectly depict DNA as left-handed, while it is right-handed. Furthermore, they do not faithfully depict the alternation of the main and minor helix, they also display the wrong number of bases, or they only display one half-turn of the DNA double helix instead of a full turn. We solved these and many other deficiencies and designed an innovative elastic DNA model, which does not have the mentioned disadvantages and can be used to demonstrate various spatial and mechanical properties of the DNA molecule," said Dušan Račko from the SAS Polymer Institute.
A new elastic DNA model can accurately depict the key properties of this molecule. It is made of elastic materials and shows how the DNA reacts to mechanical stress. The model reproduces the structural properties of the DNA molecule in detail. Its size can be adapted for different purposes, it can be deformed in biological processes, but also in technological processes such as DNA sequencing.
"This model can serve as a great teaching tool for schools. It can be held and explored, it is fun and interactive, but it can also be a tool for scientists to research DNA and create computer models. We invite potential partners for cooperation and licensing to jointly contribute to the introduction of this innovative elastic model into practical life," adds Dušan Račko.
The Slovak Academy of Sciences submitted Slovak priority patent application PP 50035-2024 for this innovative model.
Edited by: Monika Tináková
Photo: authors´ archive and M. Bystriansky