Huddersfield hits gold! University enters Guinness Book of Records with world's largest model of DNA

Guinness World Records have confirmed that the University of Huddersfield has won a new World Record for "largest model of DNA".

The model was constructed by the Olympian efforts of 124 University and sixth form students and academic staff at the University of Huddersfield. Students from the University's Department of Chemical & Biological Sciences teamed up with about 60 sixth-form students from Huddersfield Technical Collegel, Rastrick High School, Huddersfield New College, Greenhead College, Shelley High School and Heckmondwike Grammar to beat the record in just under one hour, following a morning of intensive coaching and training.

The record-breaking DNA model measures 21.5 m (70 ft 6 in) and exactly copies the genetic code for human insulin. It is the world's largest because it consists of 1,118 base pairs, compared with the previous world record, which was a random sequence of about 300 base pairs. A 'base-pair' is the fundamental element of the genetic code used by all organisms to make proteins such as insulin. The new record-breaker is now on permanent display as a spectacular piece of public art in the Science Building at the University of Huddersfield .

The model - which is just short of the length of a cricket pitch - uses the innovative mini-Molymod system developed by Sussex inventor James Spiring. It was verified on the day as accurate and meeting world-record requirements by famous cricket umpire Dickie Bird and former head of pharmaceutical company Galpharm International Graham Leslie, who adjudicated the record-breaking attempt. Guinness World Records had to examine photographs and video footage alongside signed statements from adjudicators before confirming that Huddersfield now holds the official world record.

Dr Jeremy Hopwood led the event, which also included talks about DNA and diabetes from colleagues Dr Shamus Burns, Dr Mike Saul, Dr Dougie Clarke and Andy Adams.

Read the Huddersfield Daily Examiner's coverage of the Record Attempt

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