Exploring Electrophoresis Using Forensic DNA Evidence Demonstration Kit
Use evidence found in DNA fingerprint patterns to argue which suspect committed a crime.
PE: HS-LS3-2
Time Requirement: 2 45-minute Class Periods
SEP: Engaging in argument from evidence
CCC: Cause and Effect
DCI: LS3.B: Variation of Traits
Intermediate—Easy to perform; requires some background knowledge.
- Introduce students to the use of DNA analysis in forensic investigations
- Perform a technically simple, hands-on experiment in 45 minutes with 9-V batteries
- Discuss advanced topics of PCR and DNA fingerprinting
Solve a forensic mystery using the tools of biotechnology and the concept of DNA fingerprinting. Students cast agarose gels, load predigested DNA samples, and perform electrophoresis with one to three 9-V batteries. They stain the gels and analyze the banding patterns of DNA collected from the suspects and the crime scene. Demo kit includes beautifully illustrated instructions, free 1-year access to digital resources that support 3-dimensional instruction, as well as needed materials and equipment for 1 instructor to perform the demonstration twice to a classroom. Materials are durable and reusable with replacement parts available.
Specifications - Shipping Information or Purchase Restrictions
- This item contains living or perishable material and ships via 2nd Day or Overnight delivery.
What’s Included:
- 1 Melt 'n' Pour Agarose, 1%, 30 mL
- 1 20x TBE Buffer, 75 mL
- 1 CarolinaBLU® Stain (concentrate), 50 mL
- 1 Electrophoresis Chamber
- 1 Pipetting Device
- 1 Tubing, 1 cm
- 20 Pipet Tips
- 8 DNA Evidence Samples
- 1 Carbon Fiber Sheet (11 x 10 cm)
- 1 4-Well Comb
- 1 Pair of Leads
- 1 Carolina Science Online® Resources (1-year subscription)
- 1 Teacher's Manual with Reproducible Student Guide
Needed But Not Included:
- 9-V Batteries or Power Supply
- Distilled or Deionized Water
- Microwave, Hot Water Bath, or Hot Plate
- Gloves
- Aluminum Foil (optional)
- White Light Transilluminator (optional)
