What happened to Missy Baker? Where has she gone?
Missy Baker is missing and police have two suspects. Students will test DNA evidence from both suspects’ cars to see if it matches Missy Baker. This investigation highlights real-world applications of DNA analysis in personal identification. Further, because Missy Baker has cystic fibrosis, students gain exposure to principles of medical genetics.
In this 90-minute miniPCR Learning Lab™, students help police investigators solve a crime mystery by matching forensic DNA samples to a missing person’s genetic material. Students amplify DNA by PCR in less than 45 minutes!
Key info and benefits:
- Techniques: Micropipetting, PCR, gel electrophoresis
- Topics: Forensics, genes and disease, genotype to phenotype, cystic fibrosis, biotechnology
- Time required: Can be completed in two 45-minute class periods or one 90-minute class period
- Level: High school
- This kit provides enough reagents for eight groups (32 students). These reagents are compatible with blueGel™ or other standard DNA electrophoresis systems.
- See notes for extra requirements
Kit includes:
- Concentrated (2X) EZ PCR Master Mix, Load-Ready™
- Concentrated (3X) Crime Lab Primer Mix
- 4 DNA samples to investigate, including controls
- 100 bp DNA ladder, Load-Ready™
Notes:
- See resources below to download the teacher's guide and student guide for this lab. Contact Southern Biological for answers key.
- This kit provides DNA samples, DNA ladder and gel loading dye only. To perform this lab, you will require PCR and electrophoresis equipment; such as electrophoresis chamber, agarose, TBE buffer and Midori green gel stain. A miniPCR unit for eight or sixteen tubes, PCR tubes and our electrophoresis starter kit contains the hardware and reagents required.
- For best results, we recommend running your gels in the blueGel electrophoresis chamber. If you do not have a blueGel electrophoresis unit with built-in illuminator, we have a transilluminator onto which you can place your gels to visualise your results immediately after the electrophoresis run is complete.
- These DNA samples require frozen storage, which will keep them stable for 12 months. The DNA samples are stable for a couple of weeks at room temperature, and the master mix for several days.
