Engaging Non-Science Students: Applications of Tools of Molecular Biology

 

Lessem, P.

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2010, Volume 31

Abstract

Mass media, as they are searching for the attention-catching titles and topics that attract viewers/readers, have a tendency to represent biology-related topics in a sensational manner. This often results in misleading presentations of biological concepts in large and small screen industry productions as well as in printed media and ever growing web sources. From the portrayal of eugenics in GATTACA to numerous uses of DNA technology in TV shows, the public is constantly assaulted with surreal and frightening scenarios. The inability to comprehend the relevance of this information is likely to multiply as the public struggles to keep up with a fast growing body of knowledge in biology – including its implications for advances in health care, the environment, and national security. In this module, the non-science student will be introduced to basic tools in molecular biology using the β-lactamase gene to illustrate PCR, restriction digestion, agarose gel electrophoresis, and induction of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. As a result of these experiments, the students will be more equipped evaluate biologic data as it becomes available.

Keywords:  restriction enzymes, PCR, polymerase chain reaction, electrophoresis, β-lactamase

University of Delaware (2009)