Question

Who is credited with the discovery of DNA?

• A. James Watson
• B. Francis Crick
• C. F. Miescher
• D. Rosalind Franklin

Hint:

Friedrich Miescher discovered DNA in 1869 and originally named it “nuclein” because it was isolated from the cell nucleus.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Topic - Biology: Molecular Basis of Inheritance
Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the scientist who first isolated and identified DNA as a distinct substance.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Friedrich Miescher (1869): He isolated a substance from the nuclei of white blood cells (pus cells) and called it ``nuclein''. This substance was later identified as DNA. He is credited with the discovery of DNA.

2. Watson and Crick (1953): They proposed the Double Helix model of DNA based on X-ray diffraction data.

3. Rosalind Franklin: She produced the X-ray diffraction images (Photo 51) that were essential for determining the structure of DNA.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The discovery of DNA is credited to F. Miescher.