New 8Letter DNA Rewrites the Genetic Code SciShow News

Scientists have developed synthetic DNA with an eight-letter code, expanding DNA's information storage capacity. This hachimoji DNA, with new bases P, B, Z, and S, could revolutionize data storage and have medical applications. It challenges the uniqueness of natural DNA and suggests alternative life forms could exist. The research, funded by NASA, aims to broaden our understanding of potential alien life.

What is the primary significance of creating an eight-letter DNA code?

• It simplifies genetic sequencing.

• It allows for the creation of new life forms.

• It makes DNA more stable.

• It expands DNA's ability to store information.

Which new base pairs are introduced in hachimoji DNA?

• A pairs with T, and C pairs with G

• P pairs with Z, and B pairs with S

• X pairs with Y, and M pairs with N

• R pairs with Q, and L pairs with K

What challenge did researchers face with the S base in hachimoji DNA?

• It was too large to fit in the double helix.

• It could not form base pairs with any other base.

• It was unstable at room temperature.

• It had a chemical structure that weakened its hydrogen bond.

How does hachimoji DNA potentially enhance data storage capabilities?

• By increasing the speed of data retrieval.

• By making DNA more resistant to mutations.

• By allowing more information to be stored in less space.

• By reducing the size of DNA strands.

What potential medical application does hachimoji DNA have?

• Developing vaccines for viral infections.

• Enhancing the immune response.

• Creating new antibiotics.

• Targeting medications to specific cells using aptamers.