Please note: This exhibit may be out of date, please visit our new Genetics online exhibit.

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What does DNA look like -- without a microscope?

Handling DNA in the lab

When scientists are working with DNA, their friends tease them they are just moving water back and forth. DNA dissolves in water, just like sugar or salt, and makes a clear, colorless solution. One little tube like the one in the scientist's hand can hold DNA from billions of cells.