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Intro to Biotechnology. What is Biotechnology?. The application of science to living organisms. Modern Biotechnology allows for genetic engineering and the manipulation of DNA. . Biotechnology.
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What is Biotechnology? • The application of science to living organisms. Modern Biotechnology allows for genetic engineering and the manipulation of DNA.
Biotechnology • This course is designed to provide students with Biotechnology and Laboratory techniques through a practical hands- on approach.
DNA- Deoxyribonucleic Acid • A double- stranded helix molecule that stores genetic information for an organism. • All living things are composed of DNA. • DNA is found in the nucleus of the cell on the chromosomes.
Very Simple DNA Extraction • This method is quick and easy it can be performed in almost any classroom environment. • This laboratory activity helps in teaching about DNA because it makes DNA tangible.
DNA Extraction Materials- Per Student or Group. • Salt • Clear Liquid Soap • Water • Filter (coffee filter, cheese cloth, paper towel) • Funnel • Alcohol or Ethanol at least 90%-Must be ice cold! • Small Test Tube • Zip lock sandwich baggie. • Paper Clip • Fruit- cherries, strawberries, or bananas work the best
DNA Extraction • Steps • Smash the fruit • Add a clear detergent • Add sodium • Filter • Add 99% Alcohol • Spool DNA
Steps to Simple DNA Extraction • Place fruit (2 medium to large strawberries) into a zip lock baggie. Zip the bag shut, removing all of the air. • Smash the fruit until it is almost liquid. • In this step you are breaking down the cell membrane to release the DNA.
Steps to Simple DNA Extraction • Add one tablespoon of detergent to the baggie, re-zip and mix. • The detergent washes the DNA away from the cell and other organelles.
Steps to Simple DNA Extraction • Add ¼ teaspoon of salt and one tablespoon of water to the fruit mixture. Re-zip the baggie and mix. • The salt breaks down proteins that are associated with cellular and DNA functions.
Steps to Simple DNA Extraction • Using a filter and funnel, funnel the mixture into a test tube. • This step can take a minute or two to complete. • Be careful that your filter does not break. • Try to obtain ½ to 1” of filtrate into the test tube.
Steps to Simple DNA Extraction • Hold the test tube at a 45 degree angle. • Carefully pour the ice cold alcohol over the strawberry solution. • The alcohol is used to precipitate DNA out of the strawberry solution. Also, DNA will not dissolve in alcohol.
Steps to Simple DNA Extraction • You will begin to see a visible interface between the strawberry layer and the alcohol layer. That interface is DNA. • Allow the tube to sit for a few minutes. • Using your paper clip, make a hook. • This paper clip can be used to spool up DNA fibers. Use a slow twirling motion to avoid breaking and separating the strand.
Other Kits • Carolina- Plant Biotechnology-DNA Extraction Kit • Wards- Natural Science DNA on a Chain.
References/ Resources • www.biotechinstitute.org • www.funsci.com • http://biotech.biology.arizona.edu/labs/DNA_Kiwifruit_teacher.html • http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/