Applications of New Technologies to Classical Restriction Enzyme Labs

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2016, Volume 37

Boriana Marintcheva

Abstract

Teaching labs employing restriction enzymes are a popular choice across the undergraduate curriculum. Long waiting periods and ethidium bromide driven safety precautions are common factors limiting the opportunities for a truly independent student experience. Recent technological advancements allow improvements of classical labs by introducing high fidelity enzymes, new generation safer DNA stains, and alternative DNA electrophoresis buffer with slower electrolyte exhaustion. The described approach can be applied to any existing restriction enzyme lab with minimal revision of lab materials as long as fast cutting versions of the used enzymes are available.

Keywords:  agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction digest, ethidium bromide alternatives

Boston University (2015)