While few people might be able to explain the exact composition and intricate details of DNA, many of us can easily picture the iconic double helix structure. This image is thanks to Rosalind Franklin, a brilliant scientist whose work was central in discovering DNA’s structure.
Today, on July 25th, we honour Rosalind Franklin's birthday and celebrate her story of scientific triumph, perseverance, and dedication in a male-dominated field. Her incredible discovery has allowed us to learn so much about the human body and DNA, including how we can support our genetic health with nootropics like NMN. So, let’s learn about her inspiring story.
A Pioneer in Science
Born on July 25, 1920, in London, Rosalind Franklin displayed an early love for science and a strong determination to follow her passion. She earned her Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Cambridge University and made significant strides at the British Coal Utilisation Research Association, where she helped understand coal and carbon properties. However, it was her work at King’s College London that cemented her legacy.
Franklin’s expertise in X-ray crystallography led to the famous Photograph 51 (you can see it below), an image that proved the helical structure of DNA. It showed the distinctive X-shape, which pointed to the helical structure, while the spacing of the spots gave precise measurements of the helical pitch and the distance between nucleotides. This data was critical for Watson and Crick in developing their model of the DNA double helix. Their model, published in 1953, laid the foundation for understanding genetic replication and heredity, advancing molecular biology.
Sadly, Franklin passed away from ovarian cancer in 1958, so she never saw the full recognition of her contributions. When Watson, Crick, and Wilkins were awarded the Nobel Prize in 1962, Franklin was not included because the prize is not awarded posthumously.
The fact that Watson and Crick used Franklin’s Photo 51 without her knowledge is a significant part of this story. Maurice Wilkins, Franklin's colleague at King’s College, showed the photo to Watson, which helped Watson and Crick build their DNA model. Franklin had already deduced much about the helical nature of DNA from her photos, but her work was used by others to gain the recognition she deserved, which has led to much discussion about the proper acknowledgment and credit in scientific discoveries.
Overcoming Challenges
Franklin’s journey was marked by numerous challenges. As a woman in science during the 1950s, she faced significant gender bias and was often marginalised by her male colleagues. Despite these obstacles, her meticulous work and dedication never failed her.
In the years following her death, Franklin’s contributions have received increasing recognition, so she is now celebrated as one of the key figures in the discovery of DNA’s structure. Numerous awards, lectureships, and even a crater on the moon have been named in her honour, and her legacy continues to inspire scientists, particularly women.
Mystery Explained: The Structure of DNA
DNA’s structure, as revealed by Rosalind Franklin, is fascinating yet easy to understand once you get the basics. Similarly to a twisted ladder or a spiral staircase, the DNA has this double helix shape. The "rungs" of this ladder are made up of pairs of chemical bases: adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine. The "sides" of the ladder are formed by sugar and phosphate molecules, creating a backbone that supports the structure.
This double helix arrangement is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows DNA to replicate accurately. When cells divide, the DNA strands unwind, and each strand serves as a template for creating a new complementary strand. This ensures that each new cell has an exact copy of the DNA. Secondly, the structure enables DNA to store vast amounts of genetic information in a compact form, so each sequence of bases along the DNA strand carries instructions for building proteins, which perform most of the functions in our bodies.
The Modern Connection
Franklin’s revolutionary work on DNA has had a massive impact, influencing a lot of research today, especially regarding cellular health. Interestingly, some nootropics like NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) can help repair DNA by boosting NAD+ levels, which naturally decrease as we age.
One of the coolest aspects of NMN research is its potential to enhance DNA repair. Our DNA gets damaged daily by environmental factors and regular cellular processes, so efficient DNA repair is important for maintaining genetic stability and preventing diseases like cancer. NAD+ is essential for these repair processes, and increasing its availability through NMN supplementation can improve the body’s ability to repair DNA damage, potentially promoting longevity and reducing the risk of age-related diseases.
Besides DNA repair, NMN also boosts brain health. Studies suggest that NAD+ levels in the brain influence neuronal function, so, if you boost NAD+ levels with NMN, your cognitive performance can be enhanced. Plus, it can also protect neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. This connection to cognitive health is a fitting tribute to Franklin’s legacy, given her contributions to understanding the genetic material that underpins all cellular functions.
To experience the benefits of NMN for yourself, try Simply Nootropics NMN capsules or powder. These high-quality supplements are designed to boost your NAD+ levels, supporting your brain health. Incorporating NMN into your routine helps you feel more energetic, focused, and mentally sharp, improving your DNA repair mechanisms!
Thanks to Franklin’s discoveries, we now have a deeper knowledge of DNA, but also more ways to support our cellular health. So, the next time you think about DNA and its double helix, remember Rosalind Franklin and the incredible impact of her pioneering research. Happy Dr. Franklin!
