How to Make a DNA Model for a Simple Science Project
You can construct a simple, attractive DNA model using beads and pipe cleaners. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a double helix or ladder-shaped molecule. The outer side of the ladder represents the phosphate backbones, and the rungs represent adenine-thymine compounds and guanine-cytosine compounds in various sequences. Once you have assembled the model, you can twist it gently to provide the helix characteristic of a DNA molecule.
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Things You'll Need
- 2 white pipe cleaners
- Scissors
- Fine-tip permanent black marker
- 3 red beads
- 3 green beads
- 3 blue beads
- 3 yellow beads
- 2 black pipe cleaners
Instructions
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1
Cut each white pipe cleaner in equal thirds using scissors.
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2
Label beads using fine-tipped black permanent marker. The beads will represent nucleotide sequences. Label three green beads "G" for guanine, three yellow beads "C" for cytosine, three red beads "A" for adenine and three blue beads "T" for thymine.
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3
Thread two beads on each white pipe cleaner section to represent paired nucleotides. Green and yellow beads should be paired because in DNA molecules, guanine only is paired with cytosine. Red and blue beads should be paired to represent the bonds between adenine and thymine.
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4
Tie the ends of the beaded white pipe cleaners to two parallel black pipe cleaners. Place the nucleotide beaded sections in random order. You should end up with a beaded ladder shape.
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5
Gently twist opposite ends of the pipe cleaner ladder to create a helix.
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1
Tips & Warnings
To create a more durable model, place dabs of glue at the meeting points between the black and white pipe cleaners.
To enrich your model, write a research paper or create a backboard display on the structure and history of DNA.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit dna 10 image by chrisharvey from Fotolia.com
