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Longest model of a DNA gene-world record set
at Huddersfield University
[March
14]HUDDERSFIELD,UK--Students from Huddersfield
University and school pupils from across the town
created a new world record, by building the longest model
of a DNA gene.
The 24 metre-long model, an exact replica
of the insulin gene, will now be permanently installed in
the university’s science school.
The record breakers spent about an hour constructing
the model, which consisted of 1,118 base pairs. The previous
record was a model made up of 300 base pairs.
As part of National Science and Engineering Week,
the university invited about 60 sixth-form students from Morley
High School, Rastrick High School, Huddersfield New College,
Greenhead College, Shelley High School and Heckmondwike Grammar
School. Cricket legend Dickie Bird was there,too.
Photo: Dickie Bird (centre) is pictured
being presented with a Huddersfield Giants rugby shirt by
the University's Director of Finance, Mr Andrew McConnell
(left), and the Director of Estates & Facilities, Mr Colin
Blair.
(enlarge
photo)
They listened to lectures before joining about
40 university students to take part in the record attempt.
Dr Jeremy Hopwood, science lecturer and
event organiser, said: “The big difference is that the previous
record breaker was a random sequence. Our students followed
the exact gene sequence for insulin. It was a great effort
by a lot of people coming together. There’s only so much you
can get from a textbook, so in terms of educational value
something like this is brilliant.”
Prof Rob Smith, Dean of the school of applied
sciences, added: “It’s wonderful to have a co-operative effort
like this. It’s much more impressive than I ever imagined.”
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