Electrophoresis for genetically modified flowers identification

Electrophoresis for genetically modified flowers identification

Genetic engineering can be used to modify food and flower crops to introduce favorable traits.

In this experiment, students will use agarose gel electrophoresis to differentiate between genetically engineered “true blue” chrysanthemums vs. artificially-dyed flowers.

By comparing the DNA patterns, students will discover how molecular biology can be used to distinguish between the genetically modified mums and the dyed ones.

• Hands-on use of core biotech tools to detect and identify genetically modified plants in simulated samples.
• Understand how electrophoresis separates differently-sized molecules.
• Perform agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Meets NGSS HS DCI LS1.A, LS3.A, LS3.B, and ETS1.B through the discussion of the structure and function of DNA, heredity and variance of traits, and use of biotechnology to make genetic modifications.

Group Size:

For 8 Gels

Time Required:

Complete in 45 minutes

All You Need:

DNA Electrophoresis, Micropipettes: 5-50 µl (Optional), White Light Box, & Microwave or Hot Plate.

Kit Includes:

Instructions, Ready-to-Load QuickStrip™ DNA Samples, UltraSpec-Agarose™, Electrophoresis Buffer (50X), Practice Gel Loading Solution, FlashBlue™ DNA Stain.

Storage:

Room Temperature Stable. Storage of Ready-to-Load QuickStrip™ samples in the Refrigerator is Recommended.