James Watson, DNA Double Helix Co-Discoverer, Passes Away at 97

James Watson, DNA Double Helix Co-Discoverer, Passes Away at 97

According to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, pioneering molecular biologist James D. Watson, who co-discovered the DNA double-helix structure, has passed away at the age of 97.

In 1953, James D. Watson, along with Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins, revealed the ladder-like structure of DNA — the molecule that carries the genetic code of life.

At the age of 24, Watson helped unlock the mystery of how genetic information is stored, copied, and transmitted from one generation to the next.

This groundbreaking discovery led to the iconic image of the double helix and paved the way for advancements in genetic engineering, forensic DNA analysis, ancestry testing, and the mapping of the human genome.