- Dr Jon Heras
- DNA mutation
- Anim./Multimedia-D/Exhibits
Illustration of the DNA double helix, unwound and unzipped into its two complementary strands, one of which is shown here in close-up. DNA is formed of two sugar-phosphate strands (grey) linked by pairs of bases: adenine (green) binds with thymine (red), and guanine (yellow) binds with cytosine (blue). The sequence of bases along the strands forms a template for the production of proteins. The change from T to A seen here is a point mutation, and can lead to a different amino acid being incorporated into the intended protein, often significantly changing its properties. For example, sickle-cell anaemia is caused by a point mutation in the gene coding for the blood protein beta-haemoglobin.
About the Artist: Dr Jon Heras x
I run Equinox Graphics, a small technical illustration and animation studio in Cambridge, after completing my PhD in engineering, and we have worked for important clients such as Bloodhound SSC, ESA, NASA, Nature, Design Council, Institute of Physics, Institute of Mechanical Engineers, Windfall Films, etc., and have been published in Nature, Science, BMJ, The Lancet, New Scientist, Chemistry World, The Ecologist as well as BBC news and science publications.
Our hands-on science and engineering backgrounds remove the knowledge gap that can frustrate communication on technical projects. We have developed a distinctive style, and our work was recently recognised by Science magazine, being awarded an honourable mention (i.e. runner-up) in their 2011 Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge, which is fiercely fought by artists and scientists alike from around the world.
We have a wide knowledge of both the biological and physical sciences, and can communicate with scientists to ensure accuracy and functionality in our science communication media.