Chemists claim 1st almost all artificial DNA molecule

BEIJING, July 8 (Xinhuanet) -- Japanese chemists say
they have created the world's first DNA molecule made almost entirely of
artificial parts, which could lead to improvements in gene therapy, nano-sized
computers and other high-tech advances.

Scientists have tried for years
to develop artificial versions of DNA in order to take advantage
of its amazing information storage capabilities. Already, DNA has been used to
create simple electronic circuits.

DNA uses just four basic building blocks, known as
bases, to code proteins used in cell functioning and development. Other
researchers have crafted DNA molecules with a few artificial parts.

But Masahiko Inouye and colleagues at the University
of Toyama stitched together four entirely new, artificial bases inside the
sugar-based framework of a DNA molecule, creating unusually stable,
double-stranded structures resembling natural DNA, they say.

Like natural DNA, the new ripoffs were right-handed
and some easily formed triple-stranded structures.

"The unique chemistry of these structures and their
high stability offer unprecedented possibilities for developing new biotech
materials and applications," the researchers said in a statement. "The
artificial DNA might be applied to a future extracellular genetic system with
information storage and amplifiable abilities."

(Agencies)