Episode 3: Howe its’ done: unraveling environmental secrets for a better future

Destination Biotech, Episode 3

Howe it’s done: unraveling environmental secrets for a better future

Guest: Dr. Adina Howe and Nicole Geerdes

Dr. Adina Howe’s research is a groundbreaking blend of molecular and computational biology, focused on unraveling the complexities of microbial systems in both natural and engineered settings. Her work explores various key areas, including the identification of microbes that drive biogeochemical cycles and their responses to climate change, understanding the roles of microbial genes and populations in ecosystem functions, and detecting biomarkers for environmental health like antibiotics and pathogens.

Much of her research also involves managing vast sequencing datasets through cutting-edge computational methods, utilizing high-throughput sequencing techniques to examine microbial community interactions, and advocating for sustainable practices in scientific data and software management.

Download Options

Grade Levels

biotechnology

Keywords and Topics

biotechnology

Time Required

Approximately 45 minutes (the podcast is 20 minutes, plus the activity)

Related Resources

Dr. Howe’s information

Dr. Howe’s research publications

What’s Wrong in Waterville?

In this curriculum, elementary students are both empowered and challenged to encounter a phenomenon, construct an explanation, and design a solution. Students work with a team of water quality scientists to investigate the issue of the fish population in the pond by Franny’s Farm.

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Episode 1: What’s the buzz about bioethics?

Clark Wolf discusses how his research in bioethics helps us process many of today’s most intriguing issues. Conversation topics include: gene editing, genetically modified organisms, and sharing and communicating research findings. Dr. Wolf shares a particularly buzz-worthy project about genetically modified mosquitos, too!

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PCR Investigation

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.

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DNA Transformation of Bacteria: Red Colony

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.

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DNA Transformation of Bacteria: Ampicillin Resistance

In 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.

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DNA Fingerprinting (protocol only)

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.

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