Modular Cloning and Sequencing: A Six-Week Project in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics
This project involves isolating (cloning) and analyzing a major portion of the gene for the enzyme Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) from an uncharacterized plant species. This gene i...

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The Case of the Pilfered Plants: Biotechnology (and More) Using an Interactive CD-ROM
The primary goal of this mini-workshop was to give participants an opportunity to test an instructional module in biotechnology. The module, which can stand alone or be accompanied by hands-on labor...

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

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Hands-on Molecular Biology Research in the Undergraduate Curriculum
In conjunction with an HHMI funded Undergraduate Research Scholars Program, we developed an intensive molecular biology research lab designed to introduce students to lab standards, widely used molecu...

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Molecular Biology in Real Time: Tricks and Tips for Turbo-Charging and Student Proofing Standard Protocols
At the University of Maryland we have made a concerted effort to develop and incorporate “cutting-edge” scientific experiences for our undergraduates at all levels. Students in our introductory molecu...

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Polymerase Chain Reaction Mutagenesis and Automated DNA Sequencing
This activity combines the Polymerase Chain Reaction, in vitro mutagenesis, and automated DNA sequencing. A model experimental system, a pEMBLYe30 plasmid containing the yeast cytochrome c gene, is ...

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Introducing Students to Conservation Genetics Using Sturgeon Caviar and Other Fish Eggs
In this laboratory exercise students will learn how to: (a) Isolate DNA from individual sturgeon and other fish eggs (available at any local deli that sells caviar) using the DNAzol method, (b) Set up...

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Microsatellite DNA: Population Genetics and Forensic Applications
Microsatellite DNA has been used as standard genetic markers for human identification in forensic laboratories. This multi-week lab module uses professional lab techniques to cover concepts in molecul...

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Human DNA Fingerprinting by Polymerase Chain Reaction
This experiment uses polymerase chain reaction to demonstrate the polymorphic nature of human DNA. Students obtain samples of their own DNA using a simple mouthwash procedure. PCR is used to amplify a...

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A Novel Method to Archive Plant Material for DNA Analysis
In this exercise, students isolate and analyze DNA from food plants in a supermarket, or from common backyard plants. Extracting plant DNA is often difficult using conventional means because undesirab...

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