Details
WILKINS, Maurice (1916-2004). Autograph letter signed with initial (“M” and headed “M.H.F. Wilkins”) to Leonard Hamilton, London, 21 April 1953.

Two pages, rectos only, 200 x 124mm. Fine condition. On Biophysics Research Unit stationery, King’s College London.

Bumper number of Nature on DNA next week I think.”

Great letter penned just a few days before the landmark Nature article hit the newsstands. Wilkins compares four of Hamilton’s DNA specimens and their relative crystallinity and requests 50mgm more of his favorite: S180. In part: “DNA S180 is very good, crystalline ^like the best Signer specimen of calf thymus we have. Could you send us more of this? It has some salt in it, do you know what is likely [-] Na or Mg or what? … If you could send ~50 mgm of S180 we can do its nucleotide ratio, water uptake etc & dialyse the salt out. Can you spare that much? (or more) …

Bumper number of Nature on DNA next week I think. My contribution is hastily and badly written. / Can you let us know method of DNA prep? We are interested to find what produces crystallinity. Or is it a trade secret? If it is don’t worry.” On the second page is a table of four DNA samples and their results: the S180 and three others—less desirable—all from human white blood cells.
Brought to you by

Related Articles

Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.

More from
Printed and Manuscript Americana & Science
Place your bid Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

I confirm that I have read this Important Notice regarding Condition Reports and agree to its terms. View Condition Report