RET Teaching Module 6: Using Electrophoresis to Determine Students' Genotypes

Overview

This lab provides a hands-on laboratory experience that reinforces the understanding of molecular biology and DNA technology. During the lab: the students taste PTC paper (phenylthiocarbamide) to determine their own phenotype of tasting bitter substances, predict their own genotype, use their own cells to extract DNA, and isolate the gene that is responsible for tasting a bitter chemical to determine their genotype. Through the use of the Bio-molecular techniques: DNA extraction, PCR amplification, restriction enzyme screening, and gel electrophoresis, the students determine their actual genotype. This lab enables the students to understand the connection between the DNA topic they study and their daily life; reinforce the scientific method, and present students with real-world scientific applications for a future STEM career. TAS2R38 gene was selected to demonstrate the relationship between genotype and PTC-tasting phenotype, because it has no relationship to disease states or sex determination.

After completing this module, student should be able to:

• Understand the relationship between phenotype and genotype.
• Describe DNA structure, replication, and how heredity info is coded by genes’ sequences.
• Use common molecular techniques used by research scientists.
• Explain the technology, scientific processes, and logic used in scientific investigation.

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Included in this Module:

• Teacher Guide
• Module Lessons (detailed in Teacher Guide)
  • Tasting PTC paper
  • DNA Extraction
  • Gene Isolation
  • PCR Amplification
  • Restriction Enzyme Screening
  • Gel Electrophoresis
• Assessments with answers
• Powerpoint overview of module
• Instructional videos

Samples of the materials

• Example
• Example Lesson See "Second day, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)"

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