Inherited Cancer Risk: Lynch Syndrome
This lab is simple for teachers to prepare and can be completed in a standard 45 minute class period.
Genetic testing is not the
future—it’s the present! Engage your students with a hands-on gel
electrophoresis lab where they will analyze DNA samples from family
members to diagnose Lynch syndrome, a hereditary cancer risk, and track
the inheritance through pedigree analysis. Extension activities include a
role play centered on genetic testing to introduce students to
bioethics.
- Techniques: Micropipetting, gel electrophoresis
- Topics: Genetic testing, inheritance, pedigrees, cancer, bioethics
- Time required: Can be completed in one 45-minute class period
- Level: General high school through college
What is included?
DNA samples for 8 lab groups:
- 4 Simulated patient DNA samples (Ariel, Bethany, Caleb, Devorah)
- Fast DNA Ladder 1
Storage notes:
- If kept in the freezer, reagents can be stored for 12 months after receipt.
- If kept in the refrigerator, reagents can be stored for 6 months after receipt.
Required equipment:
Gel electrophoresis reagents and plastic tubes are supplied by the user
- Agarose
- Gel electrophoresis buffer (e.g. TBE)
- Fluorescent DNA stain (e.g. SeeGreen™ or GelGreen®)
- Plastic tubes for distributing samples to student groups
The Learning Lab Companion Kit (KT-1510-01) provides sufficient reagents to prepare and run eight gels when using the blueGel electrophoresis system, as well as plastic tubes to distribute samples to student groups.
Curriculum Downloads
Safety Data Sheets
SDS – Inherited Cancer Risk Lab
If you cannot find the answer to your problem then please contact us or telephone +44 (0)1954 210 200