DNA Electrophoresis Lab - The Mystery of the Crooked Cell

Grades 5–12.

DNA electrophoresis is an easy, fun, exciting, and safe activity to perform in the classroom. It is a widely used technique that is carried out in DNA fingerprinting, paternity testing, genetic testing, and genetic engineering.

This simple lab demonstrates detection of the mutation that causes Sickle Cell Anemia. In the simulation, your students will use electrophoresis to separate dyes that represent patient samples and controls.

Includes: Ready-to-Load™ dye samples, agarose powder, practice gel loading solution, electrophoresis buffer, and microtipped transfer pipettes. For use with the DNA Electrophoresis Station. For 10 groups of 2–3 students each, 20–30 students total. 45-minute lab. Includes a link to instructions and a teacher guide.