Are You A Hidden Heterozygote? Use of PCR to Genotype Brown Vs. Blue Eye Color Alleles

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2015, Volume 36

Jennifer Klenz, Mindy Chow, & Tina Fontana

Abstract

Alleles that differ by a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) can be detected and genotyped by PCR. The difference between blue vs. brown eyes is one such SNP and we have designed PCR primers to determine an individual student's eye color genotype. Using a simple procedure to isolate DNA from a cheek swab, followed by PCR and DNA gel electrophoresis, students are introduced to some common molecular biology procedures while being highly invested in learning the results of their experiment. This experiment can be conducted over two 1.5-2 hour lab periods and followed by primer design assignments to genotype other SNPs.

Keywords:  PCR, forensics, polymerase chain reaction, eye color

University of Oregon (2014)