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Alu PCR Amplification Lab"Ah, Lou! There Are Differences Between Us!"
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This unit introduces students
to PCR, issues of identity and issues of privacy. Students isolate their cheek
cell DNA from a saline mouthwash. They amplify their Alu PV92 locus by the
polymerase chain reaction procedure, using pre-made master and primer mixes.
Maintaining sample privacy, students electrophorese their reactions, stain and
photograph their gels, and analyze their Alu PV92 genotype. Anonymously, data
are entered into the Allele Server database at Cold Spring Harbor's DNA Learning
Center. Computer follow-up activities include determining whether the class is
in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium and plotting the "+" allele frequencies
on a world map. Students compare their demographics to a map of global Alu
distribution and brainstorm explanations for the original insertion of this
particular Alu element in the human genome. This lab is recommended as a first
PCR lab for high school students.|
Copyright 2004 Bay Area Biotechnology Education Consortium |
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Alu PCR Amplification Lab"Ah, Lou! There Are Differences Between Us!"
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Copyright 2004 Bay Area Biotechnology Education Consortium |