20th Annual Student Research Conference
Science
Involving Introductory Biology Students in the Isolation, Amplification, and Sequencing of DNA
Amanda J. Happy
Dr. Brent Buckner, Faculty Mentor
DNA fingerprinting and sequencing are techniques that are often discussed in the media today. Thus, it is important that we expose students to theses techniques and their applications. We have developed some technically manageable lab exercises that introduce students to DNA isolation, amplification by the polymerase chain reaction, DNA fingerprinting, DNA sequencing and ultimately bioinformatic analysis of student generated DNA sequences. These lab exercises are flexible in design, so they can be used in part or as a whole over several lab periods. The methodology used has been applied to plant, animal and fungal DNAs. Thus, these lab exercises should have great appeal to instructors from a wide variety of biological backgrounds. In addition, the lab exercises have great potential for application as an in-class investigative research experience.
Keywords: fingerprinting DNA, sequencing DNA, amplification of DNA, flexible design, manageable labs
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 7-1
Location: OP Lobby
Time: 4:15 pm