MtDNA PCR/Sequencing Lab
Mitochondrial DNA as a Molecular Clock
This is an advanced lab that should follow another PCR lab. First, students isolate their cheek cell DNA using a saline mouthwash. After PCR amplification of their mitochondrial control region, students set up cycle sequencing reactions for their mitochondrial control region. The subsequent sequencing procedures are done at California State University East Bay, Cold Spring Harbor, or other appropriate facility. Once the data are generated, they are posted online through the Sequence Server at the DNA Learning Center. Students analyze individual and class results at school. Analysis includes ClustalW sequence alignment between students, primates, and ancient DNA including Neandertal. Finally, students will calculate the time since human divergence.
Download MtDNA PCR/Sequencing Student Laboratory Guide. Note: The Teacher Guide and other resources are located below. You must be signed in as an authenticated teacher to view them.
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