This activity utilizes the emergence of antibiotic resistance, and mechanisms thereof, to teach essential concepts including natural selection, bacterial gene transfer, mutation, and gene expression. It also provides a connection between course content and modern applications of important concepts. The activity (app. 25 minutes) is intended for introductory students in biology. It is flexible and...
This activity is a case study that draws from the work of Yoshiura et al (2006), where a single base substitution in the ABCC11 gene can result in phenotypic change in earwax consistency. A New York Times article discussing this study is used as the main reading of this activity, as it discusses the case without using key terminology and without specifically explaining the genetics behind the...
Case It v5.03 is a computer simulation that will perform common laboratory procedures on any DNA or protein sequence, including PCR, ELISA, DNA gel electrophoresis, western blot, Southern blot and so on. By using the computer simulation together with designed cases (such as infectious diseases, inherited diseases or crime scenes), students will have the opportunities to propose questions,...
In this PNAS podcast, the concept of the relatively new "gene drive" biotechnology application is discussed, particularly as it applies to the potential to impact control of malarial vectors in wild populations. The mechanistic nature of the procedure is discussed, as are social considerations for future use of this technique.
This recitation helps students review and master the concepts of gene expression, as well as modeling a useful study technique. Students work with whiteboards and dry-erase markers while the instructor can walk around to guide/ask probing questions. The activity can be tweaked depending on the instructor's specific expectations for students. Ranking the potential severity of various mutations...
Create a Login