Students will test their own genotypes at the circadian clock gene Per3 that has been associated with sleep behaviour preferences in humans. This gene’s coding region contains a VNTR (variable number tandem repeat) that is polymorphic (variable) across individuals. Different variants of this VNTR in Per3 have been associated with a preference for evening or morning activity – whether you are a morning or evening type. Students will assess their own Per3 genotypes, while also assessing their sleep phenotypes through a simple circadian questionnaire, with the ultimate goal of learning about circadian clocks and the study of genetic associations. Participate in an authentic open inquiry investigation on the genetic underpinnings of sleep.
Key info and benefits:
- Techniques: Micropipetting, DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis
- Topics: Circadian rhythms, genetic inheritance, genotype to phenotype, genetic associations, biotechnology
- Level: Advanced high school through college
- Time required: Two 45-minute class periods or one 120-minute class period
Kit includes:
Reagents for 32 students:
- X-Tract™ DNA Extraction Buffer (2 vials)
- 5X EZ PCR Master Mix, Load-Ready™
- Sleep Lab Primer Mix
- 100 bp DNA Ladder, Load Ready™
Required equipment (not supplied):
- 2-20 μl variable volume micropipettes and tips
- Thermal cycler (8-well or 16-well capacity)
- blueGel electrophoresis and fluorescence visualisation system OR traditional electrophoresis equipment coupled with a transilluminator
Gel electrophoresis reagents and plastic tubes are supplied by the user
- Agarose
- TBE
- Midori green fluorescent stain
- These can also be purchased together in our reagent kit
- Microcentrifuge tubes for distributing samples to student groups
- 0.2 ml PCR tubes
Notes:
- See resources below to download the teacher's guide and student guide for this lab. Contact Southern Biological for answers key.
- Reagents can be kept for twelve months in the freezer or one month in the fridge
