DNA Double Helix Ancestry Teaching Model

SKU: 68795WS

$309.00USD or lower Each

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Build a 24-base-pair DNA model to explore genetic variation, ancestry, and human diversity. Ideal for teaching population genetics and genealogy.

This 24-base-pair DNA double helix model (uses 2 standard Indigo® 12 base pair models) demonstrates the power of genetic variation in ancestry and genealogy studies. With over 16 million possible sequences, even a small stretch of DNA can illustrate how genetic markers are used to distinguish individuals, trace family relationships, and explore population diversity across generations.

This 24 base pair DNA double helix model is an engaging way to explore how genetic variation underpins ancestry, genealogy, and heredity. While a full human genome contains over 3 billion base pairs, even a short sequence like this demonstrates the concept of nucleotide pairing and how DNA sequences encode the diversity seen in populations. Students and hobbyists interested in ancestry DNA testing, family genetics, or evolutionary biology can use this model to visualize how changes in sequence create genetic markers that are inherited across generations. It provides a tangible way to link molecular biology with ancestry research, population genetics, and the study of human evolution.

Most ancestry services today rely on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) — single-letter changes in the DNA code that distinguish one population from another. A 24 base pair DNA model makes it easy to demonstrate how even one swapped base pair can represent a genetic marker used to map ancestry. This hands-on visualization links molecular structure directly to the large-scale questions of human evolution, diversity, and genetic identity.

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Details

DNA 24-Base-Pair Model – Learning Outcomes & Key Features

Learning Outcomes Key Features
Genetic Variation
  • Demonstrate how 24 base pairs can form over 16 million unique DNA sequences.
  • Relate sequence variation to concepts of alleles and genetic markers.
  • Show how small sequence changes affect individuality and diversity within populations.
Ancestry & Genealogy
  • Connect DNA sequence diversity to ancestry testing and genetic genealogy.
  • Illustrate how shared markers indicate family relationships and common ancestry.
  • Discuss the role of population genetics in human migration and history.
Population Genetics
  • Explore how sampling even small DNA segments can inform studies of human diversity.
  • Introduce concepts of haplogroups and genetic drift.
  • Provide a manageable classroom tool to model complex genome-wide variation.
Classroom & Lab Skills
  • Hands-on assembly supports active learning in genetics and anthropology courses.
  • Designed for groups of 2–24 students, emphasizing collaboration and analysis.
  • Encourages critical thinking about the limits and possibilities of DNA ancestry testing.
Related information or images
12 Base Pair DNA Model-Assembly Required

12 Base Pair DNA Model-Assembly Required

Forensic Biology Education DNA Model

Forensic Science

Parts
P/NDescriptionQTY
67288CKit Use Only Bond, Minit, white, 210mm5
68186-20Wobbly bond, 20mm, each456
68186-25Wobbly bond, 25mm, each98
68186-50Wobbly bond, 50mm, each30
68218CAtom, Orbit, O "a", red, 1 prong55
68230CAtom, Orbit, O "d", 110 degree, red92
68236CAtom, Orbit, C "h", planar: 108-126-126, black38
68237CAtom, Orbit, N "h", planar: 108-126-126, blue25
68241CAtom, Orbit, C "j", planar: 120-120-120, black73
68242CAtom, Orbit, N "j", planar: 120-120-120, blue66
68244CAtom, Orbit, C "k", tetrahedral, black128
68247CAtom, Orbit, P "k", tetrahedral, purple24
68267CAtom, Orbit "x", double/triple bond peg/insert211
68366Orbit bonds, opaque, 20mm, 15/bundle7
68795JamNut4
68795LAY12
68795Rod31
68795spacer11
68795washer4
68795WB1
Specifications

The picture shows 2 of our 12 base pair models that were attached to create a single model by the people at St. Andrew's Episcopal school in Mississippi. The structure is interesting because 24 base pairs code for an 8 amino acid peptide which is about as small as they get for signalling cell functions.

The model is supported externally by some labstands but we there an optional rod coupler to produce a freestanding 2 metre version. Contact us for details.

Note: The specifications below are for the standard model. You would need two them to build the 24 base pair "Ancestry" version. A additional part to join the 2 models is required. If you are interested, please inquire.

  • 1 turn; 12 base pairs; 6 each AT & GC
  • 262144 possible unique sequences
  • Use as stand-alone, display model; ~1m (3.3') tall
  • 1 hr. lab exercise for 24 students at low cost
  • Keep them busy while waiting for PCR reactions to finish
  • Can be built & disassembled repeatedly
  • Major/minor grooves with accurate size ratio
  • Complementary alpha helix model fits major groove (not included)
  • Special double bonds show antiparallel structure
  • Base-staining not included
  • Working on Biochemistry of Aging? Additional parts available to show Methylation of DNA Cystosine Nucleoside. Parts needed can be purchased below
Reviews (4)
2023-03-28

This was the DNA model I had always dreamed of when I first started teaching over three decades ago. Virtually ideal! This will be a highlight for our local science centre. DNA models with space-filling are great to look at but somewhat obscure the essential bonding and bond angles. This model, without the space-filling atoms, is perfect for highlighting the hydrogen bonding, spiral structure and phosphate backbone. Had a question and suggestion and I had my answer and response within a couple of hours. Great customer service, great value (like, it is a bargain considering what you get for a very reasonable price), and a great model. The instructions were very clear and well illustrated. What is not to love!

— Jim H.
— Indigo:

Thanks for the detailed review. Our Big Bang Theory DNA model is more impressive in many ways but as you have noted, this is the better teaching model & has great value.

2017-10-21

Once assembled, the model gives good detail about how all the different atoms fit together to make the classic double helix structure of DNA. The instructions are done reasonably well with two exceptions. The first is that when it's time to build the deoxyribose-phosphate "backbone" of the helix, the instructions show which atoms connect where, but it leaves out how they are to be rotated. The user is left to work this out by trial and error. The second is a minor error in the assembly of the stand where you're first told to put it together one way, and then later to do it a different way (positions of the nuts on the threaded rod). Having said that, I'd still buy it again.

— Bob
— Indigo:

Thanks very much for the feedback. We are planning to revise these instructions & your recommendations will be incorporated.

Good news! The instructions have been rewritten as of 2022.03.01 with more detail & photos. Also, we are available for Google Meet/Skype/Zoom video calls in case you need help.

2016-12-23

After I decided to get a model of DNA, I spent quite a bit of time researching it. I found this one pretty quickly, but kept looking. Finally, I decided to buy it. I am really glad I did. I have studied DNA for some time now, and putting this model together really brought things together in my head. Two dimensional drawings in books became a three dimensional representation right before my eyes. The major/minor grooves and how they are formed became much clearer. This is a cool model. The price is right, too. The less expensive models are fine but don't provide the detail this one does. In my view it was worth spending extra for more detail. Indigo says this is their best teaching model, and I agree. Indigo's service is stellar, too. My order was shipped immediately and arrived in good shape. The directions were fine if in need of some updating. Chris Bingleman helped me a lot-he is a credit to your company. He returned every email I sent, and quickly I might add. I talked with others at the company and was impressed. They care. If you want a really nice DNA model to put on display, this is a good one. I'd do it again.

— Steven
— Indigo:

Thanks for your insights. This model is also unique in having 3 different atom geometries for carbon & nitrogen. It puts that knowledge of VSEPR theory to good use.

2016-12-02

This model is fantastic but is not for the faint of heart. I had students assemble it in class as part of our unit on nucleic acid structure. It took two classes, an occasional bored research group member, and an awful lot of quality control on my part to actually finish it! The most difficult part is figuring out what tubes to use for what bonds. It is of course obvious if one sits all of the different lengths next to one another along with a description of the different bond lengths in DNA, but some of the tubes are close enough in length that they were initially used interchangeably by the students. The model is accurate enough that if the wrong bond lengths are used for any pieces, it doesn't fit together correctly. That was a good teaching moment:-) Once we got that figured out, it was smooth sailing. The model is ideal for teaching everything from base pairing to major and minor grooves. Besides, it looks pretty cool in my office. I'd buy it again.

— Early Adopter
— Indigo:

Thanks for the feedback. The instructions were written by the prof who designed the DNA model but they are nearly 20 years old & have some obvious shortcomings! Good news-the instructions have been rewritten as of 2022.03.01 with more detail & photos. The good news is we have engaged an exceptional high school teacher with exceptional students who are rewriting the material for us. Your concerns will be addressed in this iteration. As soon as it is done, we will announce this on the website & send copies to everyone who bought the model. Good news-the instructions have been rewritten as of 2022.03.01 with more detail & photos.

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