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. 2017 Sep 18;15(9):e2003243.
doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2003243. eCollection 2017 Sep.

60 years ago, Francis Crick changed the logic of biology

Matthew Cobb  1
Affiliations

60 years ago, Francis Crick changed the logic of biology

Matthew Cobb. PLoS Biol. .

Abstract

In September 1957, Francis Crick gave a lecture in which he outlined key ideas about gene function, in particular what he called the central dogma. These ideas still frame how we understand life. This essay explores the concepts he developed in this influential lecture, including his prediction that we would study evolution by comparing sequences.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig 1. Crick’s first outline of the central dogma, from an unpublished note made in 1956.
Credit: Wellcome Library, London.
Fig 2
Fig 2. Crick speaking at the 1963 Cold Spring Harbor Symposium.
Note the drawing of the central dogma on the blackboard. Credit: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

    1. Crick FHC. On protein synthesis. Symp Soc Exp Biol. 1958;12:138–163. - PubMed
    1. Judson HF. The eighth day of creation: makers of the revolution in biology. Plainview: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; 1996.
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    1. Crick FHC. On protein synthesis; 1957. Manuscript. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Archives, SB/11/5/4. http://libgallery.cshl.edu/items/show/52220.
    1. Cobb M. Life’s greatest secret: the race to crack the genetic code. London: Profile; 2015.

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