For everyone
Biology made simple
The basic biology behind my research, in eight short steps, from DNA to the embryo’s first genes. Each step has a labelled picture and a short animation, and takes about two minutes.
How genes work
From DNA to protein, and the switches, packaging and messages in between, in every living thing.
1DNA, RNA, proteinEvery living thing stores its instructions in DNA, copies the part it needs into RNA, and reads that copy to build proteins. 2Switching genes on: transcription factorsProteins called transcription factors read short DNA switches and decide which genes are copied, in which cells, and when. 3Chromatin: how DNA is packed and markedDNA is wound on spools of histone proteins. Tags on the spools, added and removed by protein complexes, help decide which genes can be reached. 4The life of an mRNAAn mRNA is edited, sent to the right place, stored or read, and finally destroyed. Each step is a chance to control the protein it makes. 5Making proteins: translationA ribosome reads an mRNA three letters at a time and joins amino acids in that order. The chain folds into a protein whose shape is its job.
Ideas from my research
Three ideas my projects build on.
6Droplets inside cellsSome proteins and RNAs gather into droplets without a membrane, like oil in vinegar. Whether a droplet stays liquid or hardens matters. 7Food for genes: metabolism and histone marksThe molecules a cell makes from its food are also the raw material for tags on histones, so metabolism can change how genes are used. 8The embryo’s first genesEvery animal embryo starts on its mother’s instructions, then switches on its own genes. When this hand-over happens differs between species.
For scientists: my research projects →