X-Ray Crystallography and the Elucidation of the Structure of DNA

OBJECTIVE. Since their discovery by Roentgen in 1895, x-rays have contributed to some of the most important advances in science. X-ray crystallography is an imaging technique that uses x-ray diffraction to evaluate the molecular structure of a crystalline solid. This article discusses the critical role played by x-ray crystallography in the elucidation of the structure of DNA. CONCLUSION. The story of DNA includes insights on molecular structure provided by x-rays and also lessons on scientific collaboration and innovation that can be applied to radiology today.