DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. In 1869 Friedrich Miescher discovered DNA which he called "nuclein," because it was in the nucleus of the cell. Miescher was unable to fully appreciate the significance of his finding. Scientific inquiry has since revealed that DNA contains the biological instructions for the form and function of all known living organisms. DNA is often referred to as a blueprint for life.
DNA remained a mystery until scientists discovered that DNA had the structure of an intricate spiral staircase, or double helix. The stair rails are made-up of alternating sugars and phosphates, and each stair step is composed of two nitrogen bases and a hydrogen bond. There are four nitrogen bases in DNA: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). In the pairing of the bases, A only bonds with T and C only pairs with G; the two bases together form what are called base pairs.
An article in the journal Nature by James D. Watson and Francis Crick in 1953 first unveiled the secrets of DNA's double helix. Maurice Wilkins and Rosalind Franklin are also credited with this discovery.
Human Genome Project
A genome is all of an organism's genetic information encoded in its DNA. The United States Department of Energy and the National Institutes of Health, along with several international partners, completed the mapping of the human genome in 2003. They identified the genes in human DNA and determined the sequence of the 3 billion chemical base pairs that are in human DNA. The Human Genome Project was completed in thirteen years, two years ahead of schedule.
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New discoveries in genetics are being made almost every day. These discoveries have important health implications. Knowledge about genetics can be vital to a person's health and well-being. This generation and the many generations to come will benefit from genetic advances only to the degree that they are known and understood. DNA Day, as it is celebrated in Illinois, has the underlying objective of improving people's health through learning about genetics.
Celebrate DNA Day with the National Human Genome Research Institute
On April 15 from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Eastern Time the National Human Genome Research institute will host its annual DNA Day Chatroom. Genetics experts answer questions from students, teachers and the general public. Topics range from basic genomic research to the genetic basis of disease and ethical questions about genetic privacy. Log onto www.genome.gov/DNADay to participate in the live, online chat. Visit www.genome.gov/DNADay to read about last year's chatroom.
Outreach Work with Illinois Health Departments
Throughout the year activities are planned by Illinois Health Departments to celebrate DNA Day. Contact your local health department to find out about events in your area.
Genetic Counselor Community Involvement
Genetic counselors are participating in presentations and activities in many Illinois communities. Health departments, colleges and some high schools are hosting presentations.
Breast Cancer Information
Additional Materials
2010 Brochures
Resources for Students
Resources for Teachers
Genetics and Genomics
Genetic Disorder Resources
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