Rosalind Franklin & DNA’s Structure: Photo 51

Rosalind Franklin’s groundbreaking work at King’s College London revolutionized our understanding of DNA. Her contributions, particularly her iconic Photo 51, remain a cornerstone of modern biology.

Photo 51: A Landmark Achievement

Captured in May 1952, Photo 51, an X-ray diffraction image of DNA, provided irrefutable evidence of the molecule’s helical structure. This image, resulting from Franklin’s meticulous methodology, showcased characteristic diffraction patterns that were crucial in unlocking the secrets of DNA’s architecture.

Franklin’s Rigorous Methodology

Franklin’s success stemmed from her precise techniques. Using a finely focused X-ray beam and a hydrated DNA fiber, she generated an image of unparalleled clarity, revealing the distinct X-shaped pattern indicative of a helical structure. Her rigorous approach and attention to detail were instrumental in obtaining this landmark result.

Impact and Legacy

Photo 51 played a pivotal role in the discovery of DNA’s double helix structure, a discovery that earned James Watson, Francis Crick, and Maurice Wilkins the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962. While Franklin’s contribution was unfortunately under-recognized during her lifetime, her legacy as a pioneering scientist continues to inspire.