National DNA Day 2013
Celebrating advances in human genetics and genomics research.
Published April 16, 2013
DNA Day was first celebrated in April 1953 to honor the first discovery of DNA's double helix by James Watson and Francis Crick, who later went on to win the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology in 1962 along with Maurice Hugh Frederick Wilkins. Fifty years later, in April 2003, the Human Genome Project was successfully completed by an international scientific research team who determined the sequence of the chemical base pairs which make up DNA and identified the functional and physical aspect of 20,000–25,000 genes of the human genome. Today, research continues on the analysis of this data and has since expanded to encompass work on more specific disease-causing genes, exploration of new treatments, and beyond.
The Academy is pleased to spotlight the genetics and genomics research of its global scientific community.
 | EventTargeting Epigenetic Regulators for Cancer TherapyMay 24, 2013 |
 | AnnalsEffects of Genome Structure and Sequence on Variation and EvolutionThis volume revolves around the overarching theme of DNA replication and repair fidelity within the framework of evolution. |
 | eBriefingAutophagy as a Therapeutic Target in Multiple Diseases: From Molecular Mechanisms to Drug DiscoveryAutophagy is a route for degradation of aggregated cellular proteins and dysfunctional organelles. This eBriefing reviews molecular mechanisms that lead to impaired autophagy and strategies for modulating autophagy for therapeutic benefit. |
 | EventGenome Integrity Discussion Group MeetingJune 3, 2013 |
 | AnnalsThe Year in Human and Medical Genetics: Inborn Errors of Immunity IIIThe genetic dissection of human primary immunodeficiency is expanding at full speed. This Annals volume provides an overview of the field and recent progress. |
 | eBriefingThe MicroRNA RevolutionThis eBriefing features Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun, recipients of the 2012 Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research for their role in the discovery of microRNA. Recent research on microRNA is also described. |
About the New York Academy of Sciences
The New York Academy of Sciences is an independent, not-for-profit organization that since 1817 has been committed to advancing science, technology, and society worldwide. With 25,000 members in 140 countries, the Academy is creating a global community of science for the benefit of humanity. The Academy's core mission is to advance scientific knowledge, positively impact the major global challenges of society with science-based solutions, and increase the number of scientifically informed individuals in society at large. Please visit us online at www.nyas.org.