Helix
Helix (medicine)
Helix (/ˈhiːlɪks/; plural: helices /ˈhɛlɪsiːz/) is a term used in various branches of medicine to describe structures that have a spiral or coiled shape. The term is derived from the Ancient Greek word ἕλιξ (helix), meaning "twisted" or "curled".
Anatomy
In anatomy, the term "helix" is most commonly used to refer to the outermost part of the ear, also known as the "outer rim" of the ear. This structure is made up of cartilage and skin and is typically curved in a spiral shape.
Genetics
In genetics, a "helix" refers to the structure of DNA and RNA molecules, which are composed of two strands that twist around each other in a double helix shape. This structure was first discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953.
Related Terms
- Double helix: The structure of DNA, in which two strands of nucleotides twist around each other.
- Triple helix: A structure formed by three strands of DNA or RNA, which is less common than the double helix but can occur under certain conditions.
- Alpha helix: A type of protein secondary structure in which the amino acids are arranged in a right-handed coiled or spiral shape.
- Beta helix: A type of protein secondary structure in which the amino acids are arranged in a left-handed coiled or spiral shape.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Helix
- Wikipedia's article - Helix
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