DNALC Live: Bacterial Transformation

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This experiment illustrates the direct link between an organism's genetic complement (genotype) and its observable characteristics (phenotype). Students introduce genes for fluorescence and antibiotic resistance into the bacterium E. coli. Following overnight incubation, transformed bacteria are compared to unexposed bacteria for their ability to grow in the presence of ampicillin, and to fluoresce when exposed to UV light. Take part in this lab and learn how easy it can be to genetically engineer bacteria cells!

Participants will:

• observe a hands on genetic engineering experiment;
• learn how to introduce a new gene into bacteria cells;
• understand how bacteria can be used to make human proteins such as insulin.

Audience: Grade 9 and above
Duration: 60 minutes