Bioinformatics

DNA Barcoding Kits
Students incorporate PCR, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics as they genetically identify species of fish, mammals, insects, or fungi using a DNA barcode.

Out of the Blue CRISPR and Genotyping Extension Kits
Use CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to edit the lacZ gene in E. coli. Visualize results with blue-white screening and confirm them by PCR. Apply lessons learned to a bioinformatics activity in which students design of Cas9 target sites in the human genome and determine risk for off-target effect.

Cloning and Sequencing Explorer Series
Clone and analyze a real gene with the Cloning and Sequencing Explorer series, a 6–8 week sequence of laboratory activities ranging from DNA extraction to bioinformatics analysis.

PV92 PCR Informatics Kit
Extract DNA from hair follicles or cheek cells and then fingerprint the DNA using PCR and electrophoresis to determine who in the class carries an Alu repeat on chromosome 16.

Science of Opioid Dependence Kit
This activity is designed to emphasize the complexity of opioid dependence and the many environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors that impact it. Using simulated patient DNA samples, students investigate genotypes for a SNP implicated in opioid dependence. Students use statistical reasoning and published data on other genetic links to construct evidence-based explanations.

Comparative Proteomics Kit I: Protein Profiler Module
Show students how to use protein electrophoresis, the most widely used technique in life science research, to study protein structure and function and explore evolutionary relationships.

Comparative Proteomics Kit II: Western Blot Module
Teach students to use antibodies to identify one protein among hundreds and distinguish closely and distantly related species of fish via western blotting.