Lecture, chapter 13 - Cloning and recombinant DNA technology

Today we continued with chapter 13.

We discussed the process to make genomic DNA libraries and how to screen them for DNA fragments of interest, and we introduced the basics of PCR. We talked about the reagents that are required for the reactions and the basic steps in a cycle.

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"Lab" 9 - Bioethics discussion panels

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Today we had our bioethics presentations and discussion panels. Students did a presentation highlighting the scientific background and ethical issues of selected genetics-related topics:

• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) - Aubrey, Liz, Nathan, and Dexter
• Human-animal chimeras - Beth, Sarah, Stacy, Aimee, and Emily
• Stem cell research - Sonia, Katie D., Dustin, and Geoff
• Designer babies - Niki, Andrea, Jessica, and Katie K.
• Cloning of human beings - Jamal, Jerel, Shawn, and Scott

Next week:

• Privacy of genetic information - Rachel, Amy, Anessa, and Jake

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Lecture, chapter 13 - Cloning and recombinant DNA technology

Today we started the chapter on cloning and recombinant DNA technology.

We defined cloning and clones, and provided examples in cloning plants, animals, and molecules. Then we discussed the basic steps and the rationale behind DNA cloning. We introduced concepts like restriction enzymes, vectors, recombinant DNA, ligation, and genetic transformation.

In out next meeting we will talk about details of the cloning process, with and without the use of bacteria.

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