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Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Protein Crystallization for X-ray Crystallography
Published on: January 16, 2011
X-ray crystallography and the elucidation of the structure of DNA
Hugh C J McGregor1, Richard B Gunderman
1Department of Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 702 Barnhill Dr, Rm 1053, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5200, USA.
Objective:
Since their discovery by Roentgen in 1895, x-rays have contributed to some of the most important advances in science. X-ray crystallography is an imaging technique that uses x-ray diffraction to evaluate the molecular structure of a crystalline solid. This article discusses the critical role played by x-ray crystallography in the elucidation of the structure of DNA.
Conclusion:
The story of DNA includes insights on molecular structure provided by x-rays and also lessons on scientific collaboration and innovation that can be applied to radiology today.
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