DNA Day

Every year on April 25th since 2003, DNA Day commemorates in order to honor the importance of genetics and the scientific advances.

DNA Day is a special day for all people such as students, teachers, and the public have a chance to get more knowledge about genetics and genomics. In addition, this day also commemorates the Human Genome Project’s completion in 2003 and the discovery of DNA's double helix in 1953.

History of DNA Day

On April 25th, 1953, molecular biologist James Dewey Watson's academic paper presented the double helix structure of DNA, which he co-authored by British molecular biologists Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins was published in the scientific journal, Nature. Nine years later, these three scientists were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discovering the molecular structure of nucleic acids and its importance for the transfer of genetic information in the body.

The Human Genome Project was notified to be completed on April 14th, 2003, which was an international scientific research project with the goal of identifying the base pairs that create DNA human and the genes of the human genome. The project lasted for 13 years, completed two years ahead of schedule, and was publicly funded by the US government. It was originally set up to map the nucleotides present in the human haploid genome, but scientists quickly realized that the genome of any particular individual is completely unique, so Human genome mapping involves mapping the DNA of a small number of individuals and then stitching them all together to create a complete sequence for each individual chromosome. This means that the complete human genome is more like a mosaic than representative of any individual.

After the completion of the Human Genome Project, DNA Day was announced on April 25, 2003 and April as Human Genome Month by both the Senate and House of Representatives. This holiday is a base to honor 50 years since the academic paper by Watson, Crick and Wilkins was published and the month itself is considered significant in the discovery of the genome. However, it was declared to be a one-time celebration, not an annual holiday. After that, the National Human Genome Research Institute National host the organization of DNA Day with a lot of events and celebrations in order to encourage further research and to celebrate and continue to acknowledge all the work. The study of DNA is the best solution for the difficulties.

Some reason for DNA Day being important

• It acknowledges advances in scientific discovery

People are encouraged to learn more about living organisms and genetic discoveries in 1953. On National DNA Day, we should appreciate the efforts bringing us the knowledge to access, and the continued research that will lead to the discoveries of tomorrow.

• A chance to get more knowledge about their genetic history

Researching about the celebration of National DNA Day demonstrates to bring us closer to our roots. DNA Day promotes us to make clear who we are and where we come from.

• It is a day for genetics and genomics

From genetic history to gene editing, there is a lot to be learned when it comes to the structure and function of the genome. DNA Day encourages all people to get more knowledge about their genetic makeup and the molecular biology of all living things through access all available information.

How to celebrate DNA Day

• Make a DNA test

There are some interesting programs such as 23 & me and Ancestry in order to trace about our family history through our DNA based on some inventories from HGP and Watson, Crick and Wilkins,. Let satisfy your curiosity and find more interesting things about yourself and your family by making in a DNA test.

• Join a local event

The National Human Genome Research Institute organizes National DNA Day Events every year. If you want to attend a local event or host one for your city, check out their events page.

• Make a discussion with your family

The most effective way to learn about your genetic history, with some added allegorical context, is through the stories of your family members. Although family stories is often similar to a decades-long phone game, where some of the information may not be entirely accurate, there is still a sense of pride when you hear the stories that lead to that you can survive today.