Biology Students are Glowing!

Mrs. Aimee Hawley's Biology 105 student made GMOs- e.coli was made to glow in the dark!

The students learned DNA technology techniques to produce Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).  They first started with culturing their E.coli bacteria to use in the experiment.  Once they had their E.coli, the students used a procedure called heat-shock to insert a DNA plasmid (a small circular DNA molecule) in their bacteria.  This plasmid DNA was modified by scientists to contain a green fluoresce gene from a jellyfish which makes the jellyfish glow in the dark.  Finally, they placed the transformed bacteria on a petri dish and allowed it to grow over 24 hours.  The students used a UV light to show the green fluoresce gene.  The technique that the students learned in used in agriculture, medicine, and gene therapy.

We are Decatur Proud to see our students engaged in such unique learning experiences!