Essay challenges Watson's account of Franklin's DNA photo
A new paper in the Journal of the History of Biology argues Rosalind Franklin did recognize the helical significance of her DNA photographs.
A new essay published in the Journal of the History of Biology argues that Rosalind Franklin did not miss the significance of Photograph 51 as evidence of DNA's helical structure, countering the account given by James D. Watson. The study was written by co-authors Alistair Sponsel and Brian Sutton.
The essay states that Photograph 49 used the same DNA sample as Photograph 51, and that Franklin's notes indicate she recognized its helical importance. According to the paper, those notes also show that Franklin judged Photograph 49 not good enough to publish, which led her to adjust the camera and take Photograph 51.
Outside experts consulted by Science generally appeared convinced by the study's conclusions, according to the outlet.
Older context
Watson's memoir The Double Helix was published a decade after Franklin's death in 1958. In a 2003 Nature essay, biographer Brenda Maddox called Watson's descriptions "flamboyantly cauvinist." Photograph 51 helped reveal DNA's double helix structure.
Quick answers
What does the new essay say about Rosalind Franklin?
It argues that Franklin did not miss the significance of Photograph 51 as evidence of DNA's helical structure, and that her notes show she recognized the helical importance of Photograph 49.
Who wrote the paper?
Study co-authors Alistair Sponsel and Brian Sutton wrote the paper, published in the Journal of the History of Biology.
Where was the paper published?
The Journal of the History of Biology.