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First DNA Molecule Constructed from Mostly Synthetic Components
ScienceDaily is reporting that Japanese chemists have created the world's first DNA molecule comprised of almost entirely artificial components. The breakthrough could lead to advances in both medicine and technology, possibly utilizing the massive storage capacity of DNA. "In the new study, Masahiko Inouye and colleagues point out that scientists have tried for years to develop artificial versions of DNA in order to extend its amazing information storage capabilities. As the genetic blueprint of all life forms, DNA uses the same set of four basic building blocks, known as bases, to code for a variety of proteins used in cell functioning and development. Until now, scientists have only been able to craft DNA molecules with one or a few artificial parts, including certain bases."
Dude, _read_ _the_ _fucking_ _article_! Their bases are not the stuff you can buy from the store. Look at the structures, they are not even going to pair with the regular bases. Their iG:iC pair uses DDA (donor, donor, acceptor) sequence of hydrogen bonds instead of ADD in the normal G:C pairs. I'll be surprised if you used similar 'alternate nucleotides' for the 'past 20 years' to 'create random mutations'. There is a practical use for these and is not for making 'random mutations'. Having alternative to DNA and RNA is one of the prerequisites in creating synthetic organisms with different genetics and biochemistry. Imagine starting the the evolution from scratch, or creating microbes for industry that can't exchange genetic information with the rest of the living organisms on earth.