Abstract

Cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) has emerged as a practical method for producing a broad variety of proteins. In addition, the direct accessibility to the reaction environment makes CFPS particularly suitable as a learning vehicle for fundamental biological concepts. Here, we describe its implementation as a teaching tool for a high school laboratory course. Ninety students in a biotechnology class used CFPS to study the effects of the concentrations of amino acids, cell extract, DNA, and the energy source on accumulation of active super-folder green fluorescent protein. Students estimated product concentrations simply by comparing solution colors to a printed green color gradient. This simple and inexpensive method allows for immediate measurements, and 26 of the 30 groups observed measurable product concentrations within 60 min. These student-generated data were then discussed to illustrate concepts of data analysis such as outliers and standard deviation. We also combined the laboratory experience with a visit to a university campus that included a laboratory tour and a college-style lecture. Our overall objective was to excite the students about the scientific enterprise and to instill a sense of personal relevance and attainability so that these students could realistically consider technical careers.

Citation

Albayrak, C., Jones, K.C. & Swartz, J.R. (2013). Broadening Horizons and Teaching Basic Biology through Cell-Free Synthesis of Green Fluorescent Protein in a High School Laboratory Course. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 22(6), 963-973. Retrieved August 10, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/168222/.

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Keywords

• biology
• biotechnology
• College School Cooperation
• Color
• Comparative Analysis
• Data Analysis
• Energy
• Genetics
• High School Students
• Measurement Techniques
• Molecular Structure
• Science Instruction
• Science Laboratories
• Scientific Concepts
• Secondary School Science