T-Eiv | In da Pendant Genes

Presenter: Jeanette Tran

Prepare your own DNA which you will take away wearing in a pendant!

In this session, cells from the inside of your mouth (buccal cells) are harvested, lysed, enzyme treated and the DNA extracted. This DNA is then collected, sealed in a glass pendant and worn around your neck.

In Da’ Pendant Genes is an activity that was adapted for the Queensland Government’s BioBus mobile biotechnology exhibition for schools and is an excellent example of DNA extraction. This simple lab activity requires no specialized equipment or stains, yet allows you to conduct a real-world laboratory procedure that can be used to extract high quality DNA from a wide variety of organisms. This DNA could be used in a number of further laboratory applications if desired.

All participants will receive an Instruction Manual for this activity.