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Questions and Answers
What is the foremost job of DNA as the molecule of heredity?
What is the foremost job of DNA as the molecule of heredity?
What puzzled many scientists about DNA?
What puzzled many scientists about DNA?
What must DNA do before a cell divides?
What must DNA do before a cell divides?
What is the key role of genes in an organism?
What is the key role of genes in an organism?
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What was the most intriguing aspect of DNA for many scientists?
What was the most intriguing aspect of DNA for many scientists?
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Study Notes
Hershey and Chase Experiment
- Hershey and Chase aimed to identify whether a virus's protein coat or its DNA core entered bacterial cells.
- They grew viruses in cultures with radioactive isotopes: phosphorus-32 (32P) and sulfur-35 (35S).
- Proteins lack phosphorus, while DNA lacks sulfur, allowing for a clear distinction in their presence during the experiment.
- If 35S appeared in bacteria, it indicated that viral genes were protein-based; presence of 32P would suggest DNA as the genetic material.
Experimental Findings
- After infecting bacteria with the viruses, the researchers tested for radioactivity.
- Predominant detection of radioactivity from phosphorus (32P) indicated that DNA entered the bacteria.
- This conclusion established that the genetic material of the bacteriophage was DNA, not protein.
Implications of the Experiment
- Results supported Avery's earlier findings that DNA serves as genetic material.
- Established the fundamental role of DNA in the genetics of all living cells, extending beyond just viruses and bacteria.
Ongoing Questions
- The discovery of DNA as the genetic material led to numerous additional scientific inquiries.
- Understanding the capabilities and functions of DNA became a critical area of research following these findings.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the Hershey and Chase experiment which determined that DNA, not protein, is responsible for carrying genetic information. Learn about the use of radioactive isotopes to track the entry of viral components into bacterial cells.
