Tuesday, November 23, 2010

DNA Fingerprints

Create a DNA Fingerprint ( http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sheppard/analyze.html )

Introduction:

1. DNA is unique for everyone. The only exception is if a person has what?

The only exception to that rule is identical twins. They share the same parents and womb so they have the same DNA.


2. What are DNA fingerprints used for?

DNA fingerprints are used for identifying the person who committed a crime .


Part 1 “It Takes a Lickin”

3. What “crime” was committed?

The "crime" that was committed was of confection. One of Jimmy's seven sisters licked his holographic lollypop.


4. What bodily fluid was removed from the “crime scene” to get DNA?

Saliva was removed from then scene of the crime. It will be used to identify the DNA.


Part 2 “DNA Fingerprinting at the NOVA Lab”

5. What does a restriction enzyme do?

The restriction enzyme cuts the DNA in different locations. The enzyme cuts is different between every person because the code for everyone's DNA is different.


6. What is agarose gel?

The agarose gel is a thick substance that allows small pieces of DNA to get through.


7. What is electrophoresis?

Electrophoresis is the process of moving molecules with an electric current.

8. Smaller fragments of DNA move faster than longer strands?


9. Why do you need to place a nylon membrane over the gel?

The nylon membrane sucks up the agarose gel so it is easier to work with and can be absorbed.


10. Probes attach themselves to the fragments of DNA already on the nylon membrane.


11. Which chemical in your “virtual lab” is radioactive?

The probes are radioactive.


12. Sketch your DNA fingerprint.



13. Based on your DNA fingerprint, who licked the lollipop?

Honey Sweet is the culprit of the crime.

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