History of DNA

Find out about the history of DNA, including when and how it was discovered, who discovered parts of it, and what we do now we know about DNA and our genome.

DNA & RNA

Explore the differences between RNA and DNA, how they form and fuse together, what their functions are and more.

Genes & Chromosomes

Our genes are what make up our characteristics, traits and the way we look. They are based on information gathered from the chromosomes passed down through generations of family.

Haploid & Diploid

A haploid cell contains all the information from two sets of chromosomes, also known as a pair. Diploid cells contain one set of chromosome only.

Genotype & Phenotype

A genotype is the entire collection of alleles, or characteristics, that we have. A phenotype is a collection of characteristics you get from your genotype. If this is confusing, find out more about it here.

Under the Microscope

Find out about the different types of microscope used in every day science, from the light microscope (you may have seen these at school), to the electron microscope.

MRSGREN

There are seven different features that make a living organism, well... alive. This simple way to remember that is here to help you.

Genetic Variation

We are all different, and so are animals, birds and insects. But why? This is due to variation, which is how we all look different to each other, but also have some similarities.

Eukaryotic Cells; A Closer Look

Take an in-depth look at what a eukaryotic cell looks like, what's inside and how it all functions.

Prokaryotic Cells; A Closer Look

Take an in-depth look at what a prokaryotic cell looks like, what's inside and how it all functions.

Cells in Our Body

The different cells in our body have different functions, and some have no function. Find out what they all do and what they look like.

Cells Size Comparisons

All cells are different sizes due to their function, and what they contain.

Active Transport

How does a cell get the nutrients it needs? How does it move things about and transfer to other cells? It uses a process called active transport.

Stem Cells

Stem cells are cells that have no function, until they are required for a function. This can be most cells, and there are different types of stem cells, depending where they are created.

Cell Reproduction

Cells need to reproduce in order to keep us young and healthy. Some cells have a longer lifespan than others, and they need to be replaced with new cells.

Cell Transport

There are different methods to moving items to and from cells, including active transport. Cells are clever in that they don't always need energy to move components from one place to another.

Links to Genetic Conditions

There are different genetic conditions that are passed down through family generations that can not be contracted.

Polydactyly

Polydactyly is a condition that when born, you are born with an extra appendage. Extra toes or fingers, or sometimes just a little bit of tissue. It can be treated, and often they are removed at birth.

Down's Syndrome

Down's Syndrome is a person that has an extra 23rd chromosome. They have distinctive features, most notably that they have a flat face. They can also have learning difficulties, all which can be helped in early years of life.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic condition that affects the mucus levels in your body, people with Cystic Fibrosis have to be very careful not to get ill, due to it being worse for them. It affects mostly the lungs, but can also affect other organs.

Turner Syndrome

First coined by Dr Harry Turner, Turner syndrome affects mainly females, and is the result of having 1 X chromosome instead of two.

Patau's Syndrome

Patau's Syndrome affects babies, and is the result of an extra chromosome 13. Most babies do not survive this condition, and there is no cure for it.

Klinefelter Syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome affects men, and gives them a tall stature, along with other symptoms. It can sometimes go unnoticed, and this is the result of having an extra X chromosome.

Rosalind Franklin

Rosalind Franklin was one of the key scientists that discoverd the shape and look of DNA. She used crystallography to determine it's shape. Her pictures taken were used by other scientists who were able to find the true shape of it.

Barbara McClintock

Barbara McClintock was a geneticist that discovered that chromosomes can change position to make the next one active or inactive. She is well known for working with maize for her tests and results.

Gregor Mendel

Considered the father of genetics, Gregor Mendel created the law of assortment through experiments with peas, noting that there are dominant and recessive genes.