http://www.the-scientist.com/?articles.view/articleNo/41570/title/Enzyme-Design/
By Jeff Akst
December 3, 2014
In the past several years, scientists have learned how to create synthetic proteins by using artificial DNA called XNA. XNA is created by using other molecules to replace the ribose and deoxyribose parts of the DNA molecule. XNA can function just like DNA by going through the processes of replication, transcription, and translation. By going through the process of translation, XNA is able to create synthetic enzymes that are able to function exactly like the natural enzymes that are created by DNA. Scientists have learned from this discovery that there are other molecules that can be used to support the processes that are required for life. DNA and RNA just happened to be one chemical possibility.
This article relates to the molecular genetics unit because we learned about the major functions of DNA by discussing the processes of transcription, translation, and replication. We learned that through these processes, DNA is able to support the basic processes that is need to support life. However, this article shows how other molecules with a similar structure to DNA can function exactly the same way. This provokes the thinking of life on Earth being only one chemical combination.
What molecule in XNA replaces Deoxyribose in DNA and how is the structure of this molecule different from the structure of Deoxyribose?
ReplyDeleteIt is not clear what molecule replaces Deoxyribose in XNA. However, the structure of this molecule is very similar to Deoxyribose that is found in DNA.
DeleteWhy would synthetic XNA replace DNA? What are the benefits of XNA?
ReplyDeleteOne example that the article provides is that synthetic XNA could be a new way to make human therapeutics. XNAs are immune to enzymes in the body that break down proteins which makes them favorable for long-term treatments that can disrupt diseases.
DeleteWhat are some of the pros and cons of XNA? Why is it better than DNA?
ReplyDelete