Genetics - How to Conquer a Genetic Disease

How to Conquer a Genetic Disease

Teacher: Nadira I. Sayed: Dallas, TX
Subject: What are RFLP's? Gene Mapping
Grade Level(s): 10 11 12
Target Audience: Biology I, AP Biology
Materials Needed: colored paper clips and various colors of clay
Class Time: 50 minutes
Brief Summary: Restriction analysis of DNA is used to map different segments of the genome. This helps in placing markers on the DNA molecule, which can then be used to locate the gene(s) of interest. We will learn about the use of these markers to gain further information about genetic diseases. There is accurate testing available now for many genetic conditions that can be done in order to determine whether the developing fetus has the trait for the disease.
Student Objective(s): Students will learn the details of DNA restriction analysis and how RFLP's are used to locate genes on a map of DNA.
Description of Activities: Each team member will construct a strand of DNA using the paper clips. Using this strand of DNA, they will answer questions about restriction analysis and RFLP's. Look for the differences in the two strands. Find the length of the fragments (how many bases) if strand A is cut with MstII (MstII recognized the DNA sequences -- GGTCTCC, and cuts the DNA between the first T and the first C of that sequence). Find the length of the fragments (how many bases) if strand B is cut with MstII. How could you use MstII to distinguish sickle hemoglobin from normal hemoglobin? What restriction enzyme patterns might you look for in dominant or X-linked inheritance? How would heterogenicity affect a diagnosis made on the basis of RFLP's?
Further Information and References: Blazing a Genetic Trail, May 1991. Ethics and the Human Genome Project, Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX (UT, System).

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