DNA Damage

Mutations are changes in genetic information.
TRANSCRIPT: DNA is under constant attack from reactive chemicals and natural background radiation. Free radicals are the byproducts of normal metabolism in human cells. Seen here as bright particles they sometimes react with DNA and cause chemical changes radiation can also affect DNA. For example ultraviolet light from the sun can cause harmful chemical changes in the DNA of skin. These changes can lead to kinks in the DNA that prevent genes from being correctly read or deletions that alter the type of proteins produced thanks to constant biochemical repair work most mutations are corrected before that have any effect. But in rare cases mutations can accumulate and this can give rise to diseases such as cancer.

[DNALearningCenter]

Visit us in Cold Spring Harbor, Brooklyn, or Sleepy Hollow!

[jennym]

Is there any video that can visually show how the gamma rays damage the DNA?

[Asmodeity]

I feel stupid for asking this, but is this an animation or is it an actual microscopic film ?

[rockyflatsgear]

We are concerned the focused low energy x-rays used in airport scanners will create statistically more double DNA breaks.

[sreedy]

A new concern regarding the bombardment of DNA by unprecedented mixtures and levels of pulsed radiofrequency radiation are explored in the following videos:

Can Cell Phones Damage DNA and Cause Cancer? Dr. Henry Lai
Dr. Henry Lai, from the University of Washington, gives a talk on the genetic effects of cell phones and Radiofrequency radiation.

Electromagnetic Fields and DNA Damage: Dr. Jerry Phillips