Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0121550850 ISBN 13: 9780121550851

Publisher: Academic Pr, 1992

The functional properties of any molecule are directly related to and affected by its structure. This is no less true for DNA, the molecule that carries the code for our very being. Yet, so often DNA is thought of as just a string of bases. "Understanding DNA" explains in a step by step fashion why DNA forms specific structures, the nature of these structures and how they fundamentally effect the biological processes of transcription, recombination and replication. Containing over 100 illustrations, some in full colour, "Understanding DNA" describes the basic units of DNA and how these form the double helix; characterizes the various types of DNA double helix that exist; explains how and why DNA twists and curves; discusses the mechanisms of DNA supercoiling; summarizes the assembly of DNA and protein into chromosomes; outlines the principles of the methods employed to study DNA structure; contains simple exercises, further reading and a bibliography at the end of each chapter.

Book Description:

An easily comprehendible explaination of the structure and function of DNA.

From the Back Cover:

The functional properties of any molecule are directly related to, and affected by, its structure. This is especially true for DNA, the molecule that carries the code for all life on earth.
The Second Edition of Understanding DNAhas been entirely revised and updated, and expanded to cover new advances in our understanding. It explains, step by step, how DNA forms specific structures, the nature of these structures and how they fundamentally affect the biological processes of transcription and replication.
Understanding DNA
* Describes the basic units of DNA and how these form the double helix
* Characteries the various types of DNA double helix that have been found
* Explains how and why DNA twists and curves
* Discusses the mechanisms of DNA supercoiling
* Summarizes the assembly of DNA and protein into chromosomes
* Describes the latest work on protein-DNA complexes
* Outlines the methods used to study DNA structure
* Summarizes recent studies of DNA in disease and medicine
* Contains over 120 illustrations, some in full color
* Contains simple exercises and further reading at the end of chapters
Written in a clear, concise and lively fashion, Understanding DNAis essential reading for all molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics students, to newcomers to the field from other areas such as chemistry, or physics, and even for the most seasoned researchers, who really want to understand DNA.