Understanding DNA: The Molecule and How it Works - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0121550869 ISBN 13: 9780121550868

Publisher: Academic Press Inc, 1992

Synopsis

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.

About this title

Review

"A systematic and comprehensive analysis of the structure of DNA from a wonderfully fresh perspective. The book is a systematic effort to understand this fascinating molecule from the inside out, building from the first, and simplest principles...I recommend it very highly." -- --Trends in Genetics

"Among the strengths [of the book] are the clarity of the explanations of some quite difficult concepts and the novel way in which certain ideas are treated, perhaps causing the reader to think again about certain aspects of DNA structure. I enjoyed reading this book and would encourage colleagues working in the general area of DNA research to read it." -- --Heredity

"Sylish...beautifully crafted, with a logical step-by-step approach to the subject. A book from which the advanced undergraduate will benefit, and which will also generate a refreshing perspective for experts." -- --Nature

"Throughout the book, there is something of a playful spirit at work...[which] make[s] subtle physical effects...intuitively comprehensible. We see DNA structures so often that it is often taken for granted that the molecule should not be anything but an aesthetically appealing, spiralling helix. But why should it assume such a nice structure? The book offers an absolutely delightful answer to this and other similarly mischievous questions. Understanding DNA is a great book that will surely prove to be a valuable teaching tool." -- --The Biochemist

Edition details

• Publisher: Academic Press Inc
• Publication date: 1992
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0121550869
• ISBN 13: 9780121550868
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 251
• Editor: Calladine C.R., Drew Horace R.