How to Make a 3-D DNA Model
DNA is a complex molecule fundamental for the processes of life. The DNA structure consists of deoxyribose sugars, phosphate groups, and nitrogenous bases. The deoxyriboses are linked by phosphate groups to form the backbone of the DNA. Each deoxyribose is attached to one of four bases: adenine, guanine, cytosine or thymine. The sequence of these bases forms the genetic code directing the structure and function of the entire organism. A simple candy model of DNA allows an easier understanding of the structure of DNA and the role it plays in living organisms for students with a limited understanding of chemistry.
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Instructions
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1
Organize the gumdrops according to color. Purple gumdrops represent adenine, red gumdrops represent thymine, blue gumdrops represent cytosine and yellow gumdrops represent guanine. If gumdrops are unavailable, other gummy candies may be substituted, such as gummy bears or mini-marshmallows.
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Slide two gumdrops onto a toothpick. The gumdrops should be paired with a purple and red gumdrop on a toothpick or blue and yellow gumdrops on a toothpick. This corresponds to the pairing of bases within DNA: adenine to thymine and cytosine to guanine. Create at least 10 toothpicks with gumdrops.
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3
Pierce the side of a Twizzler with the toothpick-gumdrop units. The Twizzler represents the deoxyribose-phosphate backbone of DNA. The order of the gumdrops along the side of the Twizzler should vary. A second Twizzler is then added to the other side of the toothpicks completing a ladder structure.
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4
Add a twist to the DNA model in a counterclockwise direction. Depending on the depth of study this step may be omitted.
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