At the beginning of the 20th century, science was still in its infancy. The study of genetic material was just beginning, and many people considered it a waste of time.
But one scientist, Oswald Avery, was convinced that there was something to it. He knew that if he could simply isolate the substance that transfers genetic information from one organism to another, he would be able to prove once and for all that genes actually exist.
And he did it! Avery discovered DNA—deoxyribonucleic acid—and showed that it could be isolated and introduced into other organisms without changing their characteristics. This meant that DNA is responsible for the transmission of genetic information, which means that genes exist!
Avery’s discovery was met with skepticism at first, but was later confirmed by other scientists. His work paved the way for further discoveries, such as the structure of DNA, which helped pave the way for modern genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology (which allows scientists to change specific genes in living organisms).
The impact of Avery’s discovery cannot be overstated: he is considered one of the most important figures in the history of genetics, and his work has had a lasting impact.
