Using GFP Transgenic C. elegans to Demonstrate Gene Expression

 

Jennifer Rowsell

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2019, Volume 40

Abstract

Gene expression is the process by which a gene is used as the instructions to synthesize a protein. Proteins affect an organism’s phenotype, which can be characteristics (such as eye color) or behaviors (such as movement). It is often difficult for students to grasp the concept of gene expression. To address this specific topic, I introduced a laboratory exercise in which students observe gene expression by using a myo- 3::gfp C.elegans strain to determine the cells/tissues that express the myo-3 gene/protein. This laboratory was implemented in a first year general biology course for biology majors. This exercise gave students the ability to make a connection between gene and protein and to see gene expression.

Keywords:  Caenorhabditis elegans, GFP, phenotype, genotype, gene expression

The Ohio State University (2018)