How DNA Is Unwound So That Its Code Can Be Read Date: November 28, 2008 Source: Scripps Research Institute Summary: Researchers have figured out how a macromolecular machine is able to unwind the ...

Scientists have unveiled incredible images of how the DNA code is read and interpreted -- revealing new detail about one of the fundamental processes of life.

This code is basically the language that cells use to read their DNA in order to translate their proteins, which are the molecular machines that perform most of life's functions.

Nanopore sequencing allows researchers to read the chemical letters of DNA like an announcer would read a ticker tape. This makes fast, cheap genetic-based diagnostics possible.

Unexpected slowdowns or spikes in this signal were often interpreted as knots in DNA. But now, a new study published Aug. 12 ...