Hershey and Chase

Definition

Hershey and Chase were scientists who conducted experiments in 1952 that demonstrated DNA, not protein, is the genetic material of viruses. They used bacteriophages and radioactive labeling to confirm this conclusion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hershey and Chase used radioactive sulfur (35S) to label protein coats of phages.
2. They used radioactive phosphorus (32P) to label DNA in their experiments.
3. Their experiment involved infecting E. coli bacteria with labeled bacteriophages.
4. After infection, they separated the viral protein coats from the bacterial cells using a blender.
5. The results showed that only DNA entered the bacterial cells, proving it was the genetic material.

Related terms

Bacteriophage:

A virus that infects bacteria.

Radiolabeling: A technique for tracking substances in biological systems using radioactive isotopes.

Genetic Material:

The medium by which genetic information is stored and transmitted; primarily DNA or RNA.