Antibiotic-resistant bacteria have been traced to one farm and neighbors are concerned. Use PCR to test soil samples from neighboring farms to determine if the antibiotic-resistant bacteria are present.

Use PCR to amplify the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene, a commonly used DNA barcode for bacterial identification.

Cell-free technology and fluorescent outputs allow students to directly visualize the flow of genetic information, from DNA to RNA to protein, all in real-time and with minimal preparation.

Examine the primary, secondary, and tertiary structures of fluorescent proteins and predict their functions, then use a cell-free system to produce the proteins to test your predictions.

Missy Baker is missing! Use PCR to test whether DNA evidence collected from the cars of two different suspects matches Missy Baker.

Move beyond models and investigate DNA structure directly! Explore base pairing hands-on using a fluorescent dye to investigate the conditions that influence DNA structure and its transition from double helix to single strand, and vice versa.

Use PCR and gel electrophoresis to help monitor the spread of antibiotic resistance in the environment. In the process engage directly with one of the great health challenges of our time!

Reagents and tubes to facilitate submission of ITS samples for Sanger sequencing. (Sequencing not included.)

Optional follow-up: Confirm gene knockout at the molecular level.

Students analyze DNA fragment patterns produced by restriction enzyme digestion of Lambda phage DNA. They will compare single and double digests to determine the cutting sites and estimate fragment sizes using a DNA ladder.

PCR amplify the ITS region, a fungal DNA barcode that you can sequence and match to genetic databases for molecular identification of fungi.

Conduct five inquiry investigations of enzyme activity. Measure the effect of pH, temperature, concentration, and competitive inhibition on reaction rates.

Explore qPCR using your existing PCR machine! Directly visualize DNA amplification and calculate relative concentrations of DNA template.

Introduce students to the use of restriction enzymes for creating plasmid maps. This activity uses pre-digested plasmid DNA samples ready for gel electrophoresis and can be completed in a single class period!

Express a mix of fluorescent proteins and watch as you purify them - with magnets! Using cell-free technology and magnetic beads, this classroom-friendly lab gives students hands-on experience with the essential biotech protein expression and purification methods.

Conduct a bacterial transformation experiment in a single 45 minute class period! This lab enables students to genetically engineer bacteria and observe the resulting blue phenotype.