The DNA Detectives

We’re beginning to understand how using DNA can cure life-threatening diseases. Dr Matt Johnson tells us about one – neonatal diabetes – and how his work is transforming the lives of babies and children.

Malaria is a disease carried by mosquitoes and it kills nearly half a million people per year. What if we could use DNA to try and stop that happening? Meet Dr Mara Lawniczak and Dr. Marcus Lee, two scientists who are trying to do just that.

Ever watched a police drama on TV and heard them talk about 'forensics'? It's all about collecting clues and one of those clues can be DNA! Find out how DNA is used to solve crimes with forensic scientist, Jessica Wenham.

We've all heard of the different COVID-19 'variants' but what does that actually mean and how can we fight the virus if it keeps changing? Dr Frank Schwach, one of the scientists working to create the vaccines we're all relying on, explains how DNA is being used to defeat this disease.

What if you could tell the eye colour of someone who lived 10 000 years ago? Or if he had curly hair? Well thanks to DNA - and a lot of very clever science - we now can. Meet Dr Selina Brace as she unlocks the secrets of Cheddar Man - the oldest complete skeleton ever found in England.

What is DNA and why is it important? Mandy and Annabelle ask Fran Gale from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute to tell us all about it.