Dna Paper Model printable pdf download

Build a Paper Model of DNA

Fill in the names of the bases on the model shown to the

right, or use the detailed model that shows all the atoms in

each nucleotide (back side of paper).

Fold dotted grey lines so they are

Cut out the model.

Fold all long creases ﬁrst. Solid

grey lines should be visible on

hidden in the crease.

the crease.

Tuck the other backbone ﬂaps

Fold the backbones so the model

Fold the paper in half so that the

(with 5’ at the top) one over the

is ﬂat. Fold the horizonal and

backbone (with 3’ written at the

other, so your model looks like the

diagonal lines like a fan (solid

top) pops out.

on in the picture.

lines should be visible on the

crease, dotted lines on the inside).

Your model should look like this

Pull the model open, and pop out

Your ﬁnished model is a right-

when all lines have been folded.

the backbones on the sides.

handed double helix. Use the tabs

to connect several models to

make longer strands.

About DNA

DNA is perfect for the storage and readout of genetic information, which is stored in the way

the bases match one another on opposite sides of the double helix. Adenine (A) pairs with

thymine (T), and guanine (G) with cytosine (C), with each pair forming a set of complemen-

tary hydrogen bonds.

The all-atom model (shown on the second side) has the sequence C-G-C-T-T-A-A-G-C-G.

Notice that this sequence is palindromic: if you take one chain and ﬂip it around, it will

form the proper base pairs with another copy of the chain. Add your own base pairs in the

model to the right…but be sure to pair them up properly! The edges of the base pairs are

exposed in the two grooves of the double helix: the wider major groove and the narrower

minor groove. These edges are also used to carry information that is read by proteins that

interact with the double helix.

Go to to:

• READ the Molecule of the Month on DNA

• DOWNLOAD additional copies of this model, and WATCH a video

demonstration of how to build it (Learn > Paper models)

PDB-101 is the educational portal of RCSB Protein Data Bank ()

Dna Paper Model

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