miniPCR Genotype to Phenotype – PTC Taster Lab
In the PTC Taster Lab you will examine how small genetic (SNPs) can
change our ability to perceive the world around us. You will PCR amplify
your own TAS2R38 bitter taste receptor gene and use DNA
restriction digest analysis to determine whether you carry a taster
(dominant) or non-taster (recessive) variant of the gene.
Description
AN ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY NOTABLE LAB.
To taste or not to taste, that is the question. In the PTC Taster Lab
you will examine how small genetic variations called single nucleotide
polymorphisms (SNPs) can change our ability to perceive the world around
us. The human sense of taste is composed of an intricate
neurophysiological network, but as we’ll see in this lab, it only takes a
few small changes in our DNA to change the way we taste.
Alleles of the TAS2R38 taste receptor gene can confer the
phenotypic ability to taste the chemical Phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and
other bitter flavors. You will PCR amplify your own TAS2R38 taste
receptor gene and use DNA restriction analysis to determine whether you
have taster or non-taster version of the gene. You can determine
whether you are homozygous or heterozygous for this trait, and correlate
your genotype with your own ability to taste PTC (and foods that
contain related chemicals, such as broccoli).
This Learning Lab is aligned with Natio
nal Standards and AP Biology
objectives. It utilizes the following molecular genetic techniques:
-
- DNA extraction from cheek cells
- PCR amplification of human genomic DNA
- Restriction digest analysis of human SNPs
- DNA Gel electrophoresis, staining, and visualization
The miniPCR PTC Taster Lab kit contains reagents for 8 lab groups of 4 students each (32 students):
- X-TractTM DNA extraction buffer
- 2X EZ PCR Master Mix, Load-ReadyTM
- PTC Lab Primer Mix, 2X concentrate
- Restriction enzyme
- 100 bp DNA ladder
Please note:
Free miniPCR Learning LabTM downloads:
Optional: Lab Companion Kit
Add all the consumables you need
for a class of 32 students: microtubes (50), PCR tubes (100), agarose
(10 blueGel Tabs x 0.4 g ea.), 20X TBE electrophoresis buffer (30 ml),
and GelGreen™ DNA stain, 10,000X (20 µl).
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