This course is a sophisticated laboratory-based course designed for students who are interested in molecular biology applications in biotechnology. The course reviews the structure and function of DNA and proteins, expanding on what students learned in biology. Students will be introduced to tools and techniques for applications involving DNA and proteins, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and immunodetection, and they will use them throughout the course in a variety of experiments. Specific lab activities include a module on DNA fingerprinting and how it is used in human identification, a module on GMO detection in food with an emphasis on societal implications of GMOs, a module on DNA bar-coding and the use of bioinformatics in species identification, and a module that incorporates an ELISA test which uses antibody/antigen interaction to detect disease. Recently discovered tools, such as CRISPR, and new research on the influence of environment on genes (epigenetics) will be addressed as areas of future study and potential advancements in biotechnology. Prerequisites: A/A- in Chemistry, B+ in Chemistry and Biology, or completion of AP Chemistry/AP biology. (Second-semester course)
- Teacher: Debra Mixon
- Teacher: Sarah Sobas