Biotech for Life (BFL): The Sweet Solution

Isolate the plasmid DNA from a bacterium that encodes for a novel type of insulin!

• Includes inquiry-based activities
• Historical background and relevance discussed
• Aligned to NGSS standards (HS-PS2-6, HS-PS2-5, HS-PS3-5, HS-PS4-2, HS-PS4-5, HS-LS1-1, HS-LS1-2, HS-LS1-6, HS-LS3-1, HS-LS3-2, HS-LS4-1, HS-LS4-2)

Diabetes remains a prevalent disease in the Americas and across the world. Continued medical and pharmaceutical research is always aiming to improve the prognosis and management of this debilitating illness. In this lab, students become pharmaceutical researchers who are tasked with isolating plasmid DNA from a bacterium that encodes for a newly-discovered high efficiency insulin variant. After using DNA extraction to isolate the genetic code for this novel insulin, students will use gel electrophoresis to visualize their results.

Ordering information: Needed but not provided: shaking incubator (250 rpm), high-speed microcentrifuge (g-force greater or equal to 10000×g), gel electrophoresis rig and power supply, beakers, measuring cylinder, 250 ml flasks, distilled water, micropipettes, tips, ice and ice bucket.

Delivery information: Included in this kit: post-gel DNA stain, agarose tablets, TAE buffer powder, sterile applicators, microtubes, weigh boats. A coupon is provided for perishable items: miniprep kit (10 rxns), plasmid GFP, E. coli plate, loading dye, blue light DNA dye, DNA ladder (1 kb), and Luria broth.