Watson and Crick knew that there had to be some type of molecule that was important in protein synthesis. That molecule was RNA. This multimedia article includes animations, pictures, video, biographical information, and quiz questions that are accessed by clicking on buttons along the bottom of the page.

RNA is now considered to be the first molecule that could transmit information. This article looks at the scientists and experiments that developed this idea. Article includes animations, pictures, video, biographical information, and quiz questions that are accessed by clicking on buttons along the bottom of the page.

In this visualization adapted from the University of Massachusetts Medical School, discover the role that dengue viral proteins play in a human cell as the virus prepares to replicate.

This website offers a clear definition of the science of Genetics, highlighting DNA and genes. There is a neat, easy-to-understand animated tour of the basics and an opportunity to go inside an animated cell. Student can build a DNA molecule and discover how proteins function. Teachers and students alike will enjoy "What Makes a Firefly Glow?" Among others, there is a student activity based on using DNA to solve a mystery of stolen artifacts. The great teacher resources supply guides and suggest classroom activities. All in all, this is a useful site whose simple interactive graphics provide a fun and easy way to learn the difficult subject of DNA.

Genes are instruction manuals for our bodies and are contained in DNA. This video describes how genes make us unique.

You may have heard about Colony Collapse Disorder, a syndrome likely caused by multiple factors that results in the deaths of many honeybee colonies. Become a diagnostic researcher and use bioinformatic tools to discover some of the pathogens that may be responsible. This unit features 3 lessons and 7 files. Lessons are aligned to NGSS.

This video introduces how HIV enters the host cell, how it co-opts the cellular machinery to reproduce, and how to fight HIV infection.

This video explains how HIV enters the host cell, how it co-opts the cellular machinery to reproduce, and how to fight HIV infection.

Students conduct their own research to discover and understand the methods designed by engineers and used by scientists to analyze or validate the molecular structure of DNA, proteins and enzymes, as well as basic information about gel electrophoresis and DNA identification. In this computer-based activity, students investigate particular molecular imaging technologies, such as x-ray, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and create short PowerPoint presentations that address key points. The presentations include their own explanations of the difference between molecular imaging and gel electrophoresis.

Read James Dewey Watson's Nobel Lecture "The involvement of RNA in the synthesis of proteins." This lecture, originally given December 11, 1962, is provided in PDF format.

Could a Tyrannosaurus be created in a modern-day lab? Join paleontologist, Jack Horner, in using protein sequencing to find the closest relative to the T-Rex, and then hypothetically re-creating a specimen in the lab.

This interactive introduces how HIV enters the host cell and uses its resources to
reproduce.

Learn about the structure and function of RNA in the body.

A free CK-12 account is required to view all materials.

This pathway provides an overview of biological macromolecules and their properties. The resources in this pathway can be used to introduce or review the structure and function of lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids. For a deeper look at this topic, we recommend the pathway Biological Macromolecules from the OpenStax textbook Biology for AP® Courses.

At the beginning of a DNA, DNA replication, and mitosis unit, students are given a short science news article summarizing a recent research paper. This assignment links the article to figures and key techniques from a related journal article, requiring students to apply and transfer the knowledge they gained in the unit.

Matt Meselson takes us on a journey through his long and storied career, including 60 years as a Harvard biology professor. From memories of his earliest science experiments as a small child to his non-traditional learning path, which included service learning during WWII, to musings on the spirit of cooperation in managing a pandemic and the future of biology and humanity, this episode gives us an insight into a legendary figure in biology. A new virtual interview series from LabXchange at Harvard University, the Xchange showcases the diverse roles, projects, and initiatives that make up the intersecting fields of science, education, and health. Hosted by LabXchange Faculty Director Robert Lue, our first season features a range of perspectives on the impact of COVID-19. View this video (and more like it) on LabXchange: https://www.labxchange.org/

Learn about the molecular structure of RNA. [11:30]

Khan Academy learning modules include a Community space where users can ask questions and seek help from community members. Educators should consult with their Technology administrators to determine the use of Khan Academy learning modules in their classroom. Please review materials from external sites before sharing with students.

This link has many tools to help understand the revolutionary sciences and discoveries in genetics.

This pathway provides an introduction to nucleic acids and their role in providing heritable information in cells. For a deeper look at this topic, we recommend the pathway DNA Structure and Function from the OpenStax textbook Biology for AP® Courses.

In this video segment adapted from NOVA scienceNOW, students will learn how RNAi, a mechanism that has evolved in cells to prevent viral infection, was discovered and how it works. [5:43]