Abstract
DNA molecules are not quiescent, but rather very dynamic and vibrant macromolecules. Alexander Rich discovered left-handed Z-DNA in 1979, but its acceptance by the scientific community has been slow. Z-DNA has been extensively characterized in vitro. Z-DNA exists in biological systems in a dynamic condition, rather than in a static state. Recent developments have helped further characterize its possible roles within eukaryotic cells. The discipline of bio-inorganic chemistry is playing a major role in the examination of the structure and function of Z-DNA. Chemists and molecular biologists are now working very closely together to produce more insights into the chemistry of different nucleic acids. Left-handed DNA is no longer considered to be an in vitro artifact. More members of the scientific community are beginning to speculate on possible roles for this nucleic acid.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 25-28 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Volume | 79 |
| No | 1 |
| Specialist publication | Chemist |
| State | Published - Mar 2002 |
| Externally published | Yes |