Introducing the True Blue Digital Lab

We’re excited to share the newest addition to the miniPCR Digital library: the True Blue Digital Lab. Adapted from our popular hands-on True Blue Transformation Lab, this online simulation is a great resource to add to your teaching toolkit, whether you’re running a hands-on bacterial transformation lab in class, or time and resources call for an accessible alternative.

This virtual lab follows the story of a real-world transformation experiment. By following along with authentic lab procedures, students observe the process of introducing a plasmid into bacteria and interpret authentic results as the colonies produce a vibrant blue pigment.

As they progress through the simulation, students experience a unique blend of reality and visualization: footage from a real experiment taking place in the lab is augmented with molecular-level illustrations to bridge the gap between the benchtop and the cell. These engaging visuals break down complex biology into a clear story, while autograded practice questions ensure understanding. By analyzing real experimental results, students practice the critical data analysis skills essential for success in the lab.

The True Blue Digital Lab covers essential molecular biology topics, including:

• Bacterial transformation: The process of introducing foreign DNA into a host organism.
• Antibiotic selection: Understanding how scientists use antibiotics to screen a bacterial sample for successful transformants.
• Gene expression: Observing the “flow” of genetic information from DNA to a visible phenotype.
• Gene regulation: Exploring the genetic switches that turn genes “on” or “off” in response to environmental cues.

The True Blue Digital Lab takes just 45 minutes and is designed for flexible use. It works well:

• When time or resources are limited. Give students a meaningful lab experience even without equipment or supplies.
• Alongside the hands-on lab. Use it to prepare students for completing the True Blue Transformation Lab and analyzing their results, or to reinforce concepts afterward.
• As a make-up assignment. Students who miss class can still learn bacterial transformation and practice lab skills—without the extra hassle of scheduling and setting up a separate make-up lab.

Ready to dive in? Try the True Blue Digital Lab today and bring bacterial transformation to life for your students! Preview the curriculum by setting up a free teacher account at miniPCR Digital, or purchase a license to assign the lab to your students.

Related resources:

• True Blue Transformation Learning Lab
• miniPCR Digital
• Four ways to use a miniPCR Digital Lab Simulation