Code of Life: Photos of DNA Structures

From human genomes

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

(Image credit: Jean-Paul Rodriguez)

This image is based on an x-ray crystal structure of a G-quadruplex formed from the DNA sequence found in human genomes.

G-quadruplex inspired

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

(Image credit: Jean-Paul Rodriguez)

This image is based on an x-ray crystal structure of a G-quadruplex formed from the DNA sequence found in human genomes.

X-ray crystal structure

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

(Image credit: Jean-Paul Rodriguez)

This image is based on an x-ray crystal structure of a G-quadruplex formed from the DNA sequence found in human genomes.

From start to finish

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

This graph shows the formation of DNA G-quadruplex structures. DNA can adopt structures that are alternative to the double-helix and can be visualised in human cancer cells by microscopy, thanks to an antibody that target them.

Cancer cells

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

This image shows, on the left, DNA G-quadruplex structures (red foci) are present in human cancer cell nuclei (blue). On the right, more structures are visualized after treatment with a G-quadruplex-stabilising small molecule compared to the untreated control on left.

Chromosomes

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

In this image, DNA G-quadruplex structures (red foci) can be visualised in human chromosomes (blue) and are present both at telomeres (arrow), areas at the end of chromosomes, but also throughout the chromosomes.

Telomeres

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

In this image DNA G-quadruplex structures (red foci) can be visualised in human chromosomes (blue) and are present both at telomeres (arrow) and throughout the chromosomes. Scale bar corresponds to 2.5 um.

Human chromosomes

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

In this image DNA G-quadruplex structures (red foci) can be visualised in human chromosomes (blue) and are present both at telomeres (arrow) and throughout the chromosomes. Scale bar corresponds to 2.5 um.

Representation of quadraplex

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

Professor Shankar Balasubramanian in front of a mural in his office in Cambridge's Department of Chemistry. Painting is representation of quadruplex DNA called 'Living by the code' by artist Annie Newman.

Living by the code

dna, four-stranded dna, genetics, genes, dna images

A mural on the wall of Professor Shankar Balasubramanian's office in Cambridge's Department of Chemistry. Painting is representation of quadruplex DNA called 'Living by the code' by artist Annie Newman.

Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.