Rontgen retrospective: one hundred years of a revolutionary technology

Article Abstract:

Historical aspects of the x-ray are described, marking the 100th anniversary of an important technological discovery. Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered x-rays by accident in his laboratory in 1895 when he noticed a glow made by an electrically charged tube. Roentgen found that by putting his hand between a fluorescing screen and the tube, he could see the shadows of his bones. The first X-ray machine consisted of a glass tube, a fluorescent screen, and a generator. Early X-ray pictures were taken of anatomy, foreign bodies, and objects inside boxes, purses and other containers. Roentgen's discovery of x-rays earned him the first Nobel Prize in physics in 1901. The discovery of x-rays prompted other advances in medical imaging such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. Early debates over medical use and costs are very similar to today's arguments over cost-benefit analysis for new medical technologies.

X-rays, Radiography

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Celebrating 40 years of the double helix: from a theory of biology to the care of patients

Article Abstract:

James Watson and Francis Crick published an article on the macromolecular structure of DNA in 1953. DNA is the nucleic acid that comprises the genetic material of all cellular organisms and DNA viruses. Watson and Crick published a second article in 1953 on the implications of the proposed structure of DNA. The proposed structure was eventually confirmed by other scientists, and Watson and Crick were awarded the Noble Prize for their work in 1962. Their work lead directly to the advances that have occurred in molecular genetics since the 1950s. These advances have increased the understanding of human disease significantly. A research study found that a certain DNA sequence can be used to screen for myotonic dystrophy, a rare genetic disease. Knowledge about other genetic diseases such as familial breast or ovarian cancer and cystic fibrosis has also increased through the advances in molecular genetics.

Editorial, Watson, James D., Crick, Francis

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Molecular medicine: a spin-off from the helix

Article Abstract:

The discovery of the structure of DNA by James Watson and Francis Crick led directly to the development of DNA technology. DNA is the nucleic acid that constitutes the genetic material of all cellular organisms and DNA viruses. Advancements in DNA technology, or genetic engineering, has affected the course of modern medical science profoundly. Most of these advancements have occurred since the 1970s with the development of techniques to manipulate individual molecules of DNA. The development of these techniques has made it possible to determine the linear sequence of DNA. The goal of the Human Genome Initiative is to determine the complete DNA sequence of human genes. DNA technology has also lead to the development of genetically engineered drugs and genetic screening for different diseases. Genetic correctional therapy is new type of treatment developed for different genetic diseases.

Health aspects, Biochemical genetics

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