This is a stand-alone protocol which asks students to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis to identify the Alu gene sequence. It is written specifically for use with the miniPCR Bio blueGel(TM) and mini16 thermal cycler equipment. Contact Biotech Outreach for additional information.
Continue reading
A full set of instructional materials created in collaboration with Iowa State University researcher, Dr. Michelle Soupir. Students investigate woodchip bioreactors as an emerging technology designed to improve the health of our waterways by denitrifying surface water. Students engage with two hands-on investigations while focusing on the importance of using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Science and Engineering Practices to make sense of various phenomenon.
Continue reading
A magazine-style publication that explores the Next Generation Science Standards Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) through the work of Dr. Michelle Soupir, featuring insights from Abby Schaefer. Both researchers discuss how the practices and scientific habits of mind impact their research in water quality.
Continue reading
In this experiment, a plasmid with a gene (DNA) for resistance to the antibiotic ampicillin and the lacZ gene will be transferred into a susceptible strain of the bacteria. The same technique is used to transfer genes (DNA) for the production of insulin, growth hormones, and other proteins into bacteria. The transformed bacteria are used in fermentation to produce commercial quantities of the protein for treating diabetes, dwarfism, or other uses. The cells that take up this plasmid will show resistance to the antibiotic and produce a color change (dark red) as the lacZ gene converts lactase in the media.
Continue readingIn this experiment, a plasmid with a gene (DNA) for resistance to the antibiotic ampicillin will be used to transfer the resistance gene into a susceptible strain of the bacteria. The same technique is used to transfer genes (DNA) for the production of insulin, growth hormones, and other proteins into bacteria.
Continue reading
DNA fingerprinting is a technique used in biotechnology laboratories to establish links between various samples of DNA. These samples would likely be taken from several different sources and compared to see if – or how well – they match. Scientists are able to determine relationships among the sources of DNA depending on the results of the “fingerprint” using gel electrophoresis.
Continue reading