Edible Model of DNA

DNA contains the genetic information necessary for life. Tiny germs called retroviruses can hijack healthy cells and alter their DNA, causing them to produce more copies of the retrovirus. Virologist Dr. Flossie Wong-Staal was the first person to unravel the genetic sequence of a HIV, a deadly virus, and she discovered ways to prevent the virus' spread.

Follow the instructions from Science Buddies to create your own larger-than-life, edible model of DNA and explore the structure of this important strand of chemicals. With the help of a grown up you can send us a photo of your candy DNA on our Community page.

Retroviruses invade a healthy host cell and alter its DNA, causing it produce more copies of the virus. In this illustration, the virus' genetic material (RNA) is shown in green, and the host cell's DNA is shown in purple.