Students will be introduced to genetic engineering by transforming E. coli with the pGLO plasmid to create glowing bacteria. This module uses the Bio-Rad pGLO Transformation and Inquiry Kit which includes materials to perform the initial structured-inquiry lesson as well as one of four guided or open inquiry-based lessons (Transformation Efficiency, Effect of Ampicillin on [...]
This module uses the Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Kit A ThINQ!TM Investigation Catalog #12005534EDU by Bio-Rad to allow students to observe the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration by observing the change in color of a pH indicator as algae perform photosynthesis. Suitable for General Biology and Environmental Science courses. Learning Objectives Students will use [...]
Optogenetics uses light sensitive proteins to modify expression and behavior of cells by exposing the cells to light within a specific wavelength. Using this technique, students will create photographs with light sensitive bacteria that will produce pigments in response to light! This module uses the Bactograph kit from bactograph.org. An exciting and memorable STEAM project [...]
Students will use genetically engineered bacteria producing fluorescent pigments to create art on agar plates. Painting with bacteria requires the strict use of aseptic techniques, understanding of bacterial growth rates and conditions that influence bacterial growth. This module uses Agar Art: Creating Masterpieces with Microbes Edvo-Kit #228 from the American Society for Microbiology. A unique [...]
CRISPR has quickly become one the most important and widely used tools in genetic engineering, thanks in large part to its ease of use and low cost. In this module, students will use CRISPR to modify the expression of LacZ to create an easily recognizable phenotype in bacteria colonies using Out of the Blue CRISPR [...]
ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is a widely used tool for detecting the presence of biological agents and even specific molecular markers on cells. It can be used to diagnose diseases, determine if food has been genetically modified, and to detect bioweapons attacks. In this module, students will use the Biotechnology Explorer™ ELISA Immuno Explorer™ Kit [...]
Wolbachia is an endosymbiotic bacterium that is necessary for the function of certain insects’ reproductive systems. In this module, students will collect samples and determine if Wolbachia is found in the insects that they collect using a portable PCR machine. Learning Objectives Students will learn to collect insects from the wild Students will learn to [...]
