ssDNA vs dsDNA The DNA molecules are not always double stranded helical structures, sometimes they occur in single stranded form called ssDNA. In 1959 Robert Sinsheimer discovered a unique bacteriophage called φX 174 (which infect Escherichia coli) with single stranded DNA as its genetic material. Even though the chemical composition of single stranded and double … Read more
Does the DNA really need to FOLD inside the nucleus? A diploid human cell contains approximately 6.4 billion base pairs. These 6.4 billion base pairs are distributed in our 23 pairs (2n = 46) of chromosomes. We know that each chromosome contain a single linear segment of DNA. According to Watson and Crick model, the distance … Read more
Gamma garden or Atomic garden is a concept popularized after the Word War 2 for the peaceful use of atomic energy (atoms for peace) for the crop improvement. They are a type of induced mutation breeding where radioactive sources particularly gamma rays from cobalt -60 or Caesium-137 are used to induce desirable mutations in crop … Read more
Mutation breeding is a type of plant breeding technique that involves exposing plants to radiation or chemicals in order to induce mutations in their genetic material. This process can create new genetic variations that can potentially result in desirable traits such as improved yield, disease resistance, and enhanced nutritional value. The present post discusses the … Read more
Role of Toxins in Plant Pathogenesis : The process of pathogenesis (the onset of diseased condition) in plants is facilitated by many factors such as virulence of the pathogen, susceptibility of the host, presence of suitable environmental conditions and various enzymes and metabolites of pathogens. Previously we have discussed the importance of different enzymes involved … Read more