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Overview of DNA
Knowledge Probe
Overview of DNA
Reading
Activities (2)
Participant Guide
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Southwest Center for Microsystems Education (SCME)
University of New Mexico
MEMS bioMEMS Topic
Overview of DNA Learning Module
This Learning Module contains the following:
Knowledge Probe (Pre-quiz)
Primary Knowledge Reading Material
Activity: Exploration of DNA Concepts
Activity: Exploring DNA Applications
Target audiences: High School, Community College, University
Support for this work was provided by the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological
Education (ATE) Program through Grants #DUE 0830384 and 0402651.
This Learning Module was developed in conjunction with Bio-Link, a National Science Foundation
Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Center for Biotechnology @ www.bio-link.org.
Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the
authors and creators, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
Copyright © by the Southwest Center for Microsystems Education
and
The Regents of the University of New Mexico
Southwest Center for Microsystems Education (SCME)
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Phone: 505-272-7150
Website: www.scme-nm.org
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Overview of DNA Knowledge Probe
Overview of DNA
Knowledge Probe (Pre-quiz)
Participant Guide
Introduction
This knowledge probe is a short quiz to help you to identify your current understanding of DNA
and its role in microsystems devices prior to completing this learning module. Please answer the
following to the best of your knowledge.
There are 12 questions.
1. DNA molecules are formed by nucleotide base pairs. Which of the following represents
a normal, non-mutated base pair sequence?
a. C-A, C-A, T-G, A-C
b. A-T, T-A, T-A, C-G
c. T-C, G-A, A-G, A-G
d. A-T, G-C, C-T G-C
2. A single nitrogenous base (A, T, C, G) with an attached sugar and phosphate is called a
a. Protein
b. Polymorphism
c. Nucleotide
d. Oligonucleotide
3. The rail or backbone of a double-stranded DNA helix is made up of
a. Sugar, phosphate groups and nitrogenous bases
b. Complementary nitrogenous bases and hydrogen bonds
c. Complementary nitrogenous base pairs and sugar / phosphate groups
d. Any nitrogenous base with hydrogen molecules on both sides
4. A length of DNA sequence that contains information that is capable of being translated
into a polypeptide product is called a …
a. SNP
b. Gene
c. PCR
d. Nucleotide
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Overview of DNA Knowledge Probe
5. Changes in the DNA of an individual caused by errors in DNA replication, radiation, and
ultraviolet light are called …
a. Mutations
b. Nucleotides
c. Oligonucleotides
d. Polymorphisms
6. Changes in a DNA sequence and found in a population are called…
a. Mutations
b. Nucleotides
c. Oligonucleotides
d. Polymorphisms
7. What were the findings of the Hershey-Chase Blender Experiments?
a. In a DNA molecule, the number of A and T bases are the same, and the number of
G and C bases is the same.
b. DNA molecules, not proteins, carry genetic information.
c. When DNA replicates, each single strand serves as a template for another DNA
molecule.
d. The nitrogenous bases of DNA are joined together by hydrogen bonds (2 for A-T,
3 for C-G).
8. What is Chargaff’s Rule?
a. In a DNA molecule, the number of A and T bases is the same, and the number of
G and C bases is the same.
b. DNA molecules, not proteins, carry genetic information.
c. When DNA replicates, each single strand serves as a template for another DNA
molecule.
d. The nitrogenous bases of DNA are joined together by hydrogen bonds (2 for A-T,
3 for C-G).
9. During DNA replication, what type of molecule “reads” a single DNA strand and uses
what it “reads” as a template to synthesize a complementary strand?
a. Protein
b. Ribosome
c. DNA polymerase
d. RNA or ribonucleic acid
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Overview of DNA Knowledge Probe
10. During DNA replication, which molecule translates the genetic information in the mRNA
into a string of amino acids?
a. Protein
b. Ribosome
c. DNA polymerase
d. RNA or ribonucleic acid
11. For forensics applications the CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) stores information
that is unique to each person in the database. This information consists of
a. 13 regions or DNA sequences in the genome that have been found to vary from
person to person in high frequency.
b. 25 DNA sequences that are not shared by all humans and that are unique to a
specific individual.
c. Any specific polymorphisms that is unique to a specific individual or small group
of individuals.
d. The complete genome or set of genes for each individual that is in the CODIS
system.
12. DNA probes are used in ________________ to identify genes, gene mutations, and gene
activity.
a. PCR microarrays
b. SNP microarrays
c. RNA microarrays
d. DNA microarrays
Support for this work was provided by the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological
Education (ATE) Program.
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Overview of DNA Knowledge Probe
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Overview of DNA Knowledge Probe
Overview of DNA
Primary Knowledge
Participant Guide
Description
The unit provides an overview of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid), its
role as genetic material, its molecular components and structure, and
DNA replication. This information is necessary to better understand
the role of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) in DNA
analysis, disease diagnostics, and gene therapy.
Estimated Time to Complete
Allow approximately 15 minutes
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid)
Introduction
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a long polymeric molecule found in most cells that functions as the
carrier of genetic information. The genetic information carried in the various linear sequences of
base pairs in DNA is what defines an organism. Changes in the linear sequence, sometimes called
mutations or polymorphisms, explain the differences between individuals as well as identify
diseases such as cancer. A number of factors cause these mutations, such as mistakes in DNA
replication during cell division, radiation, chemical exposure, and ultraviolet (UV) light, just to
name a few. The graphics below illustrate the base pair structures of a DNA molecule (left) and
mutation formation (right). A mutation is a change in the DNA of one or two individuals, whereas a
polymorphism is a change in a population.
Base Pairs Structure of DNA
Mutation formation: Ultraviolet (UV) photons harm the DNA
molecules of living organisms in different ways. In one
common damage event, adjacent bases bond with each other,
instead of across the “ladder.” This makes a bulge, and the
distorted DNA molecule does not function properly.2
(Illustration by an illustration by David Herring- courtesy of Earth
Observatory, NASA]
Past and current studies of DNA identify how DNA can be used in biomedical applications. Such
applications include the following:
 Improve diagnosis of a disease
 Test the best treatment options for a disease
 Execute rational drug design
 Create custom drugs
 Utilizing DNA in gene therapy
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Overview of DNA
DNA Analysis and MEMS
The development of Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) has helped in the analysis of the
DNA molecule. Current MEMS applications involving DNA include
 the polymerase chain reaction (PCR),
 the Sanger dideoxy method of DNA sequencing,
 the use of DNA probes in DNA microarrays, and
 the use of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in forensics.
Fields that can benefit from the DNA and MEMS partnership include
 energy sources and environmental screening,
 agriculture,
 livestock breeding,
 biomedical analysis, and
 risk assessment.
The application of MEMS devices in biomedical fields is huge, especially in the areas of
therapeutics and diagnostics.
This unit answers the question, "What needs to be known about the DNA molecule to begin
formulating new diagnostics and treatments?"
Objectives



Describe the molecular components of DNA.
Describe the structure and replication of DNA.
Evaluate the role of DNA as genetic material.
Key Terms (Define in the glossary at the end of this unit)
Bacteriophage
Chromosome
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
DNA polymerase
DNA microarray
Gene
Mutation
Nitrogenous bases
Nucleic acid
Origin of Replication
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Primase
Ribonucleic acid (RNA)
Semi-conservative replication
Transformation
Virulent
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Overview of DNA
DNA exploration
During the 1920's, scientists had resolved that
chromosomes were composed of both DNA and
protein. It remained to be resolved which of these
molecules (DNA or protein) constituted the genetic
material of the cell. In 1928, Frederick Griffith and
colleagues discovered that a "chemical" from one type
of bacteria was capable of transforming another
bacterium from a non- virulent to virulent type. In
1952, a series of experiments by Alfred Hershey and
Martha Chase conclusively demonstrated that the
chemical was DNA.
Martha Chase and Alfred Hershey (1953)
[Photo by: Karl Maramorosch. Printed with permission.]
The Hershey-Chase Blender Experiments
In what is known as "The Hershey-Chase Blender Experiments", Hershey and Chase used 32P- or
35
S-labeled T2 bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) in separate experiments to infect bacteria
(see graphic below). They followed the radioactive material through a productive infectious cycle.
At the end of the experiment, they measured the radioactivity in the pellet and the liquid. Their
findings ruled out protein as the genetic material and supported the role of DNA as the carrier of
genetic information.
Hershey-Chase Blender Experiments
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Overview of DNA
Chargaff's Rule
Early studies demonstrated that DNA was chemically
composed of a repeating structure of the sugar
deoxyribose linked to phosphate and four nitrogenous
bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine and guanine). In
1950, Erwin Chargaff examined the nitrogenous base
content and determined that the content of adenine
equaled the content of thymine, and the content of
guanine equaled the content of cytosine. This
relationship became known as Chargaff's Rule.
In 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick described
the structure of DNA using the chemical description of
the molecule in conjunction with the X-ray
crystallography data from Rosalind Franklin and
Maurice Wilkins. Four key features were noted:
1) DNA structure is a double-stranded (ds) helix
2) The molecule exhibits a uniform diameter
3) The molecule is right-handed
4) The two strands are anti-parallel and demonstrate
complementary base-pairing (fulfilling Chargaff's
Rule).
Sugar and phosphate groups form the
rails or backbone of the DNA molecule
and the nitrogenous bases form the
steps. The bases are joined by weak
hydrogen bonds (2 H bonds for A-T and
3 H bonds for C-G). (See graphic right)
A “nucleotide” is a single nitrogenous
base with a sugar and phosphate
attached. For example, a cytosine with
a sugar/phosphate or a thymine with a
sugar phosphate.
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Overview of DNA
A complementary nitrogenous base pair consists of one of the following four combinations:
Adenine – Thymine (A-T)
Thymine – Adenine (T-A)
Guanine – Cytosine (G-C)
Cytosine – Guanine (C-G)
The base pairing provides a model for the precise replication of the DNA
molecule. Genetic information in the molecule is stored in the linear
sequences of the base pairs. For example and very simply, a specific
gene might be identified by a linear sequence represented in this graphic
(C-G, A-T, A-T, G-C). One DNA molecule can contain thousands of
different sequences and thus thousands of genes.
The Human Genome Project3
In 2003, the Human Genome Project completed sequencing the entire human genome. The project
goals were to sequence the 3 billion base pairs that make up the human genome, and identify all of
the sequences of DNA that encoded genes.
One outcome of the project was the finding that the human
genome encodes approximately 20-25,000 genes. The
sequence data from this finding was able to be stored in
databases because the information stored within the threedimensional structure of the DNA molecule is digital and twodimensional. Digital because each unit of information consists
of a discrete nitrogenous base letter (A, T, G, or C), and there
are only 4 of these in the DNA molecule (adenine, thymine,
guanine and cytosine). Two-dimensional because the
information is encoded as a linear specific sequence of these
letters along the length of the molecule (e.g., T-A, C-G, A-T,
etc.). All of this data is freely available.
Another goal of the project was to transfer related information
and technologies to the private sector. One transfer
application, known as the DNA microarray, involves
diagnosing and predicting disease and disease susceptibility. It
is known that diseases have a genetic component, either inherited or as a result of exposure to an
environmental stress such as chemicals or viruses. This has led to the development of the DNA
microarray that is design to identify the presense or absenses of specific genes as well as the activity
of genes under normal conditions or external factors such a chemical exposure, drugs, x-rays, or
even stress.
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Overview of DNA
DNA Replication
In 1957, Matthew Messelson and Franklin Stahl demonstrated that a double helix DNA molecule
separated into two single strands could be replicated with each strand serving as a template on
which its complementary strand is assembled.4 Subsequent work of Messelson's and Stahl's focused
on the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication.
DNA replication is not as simple as splitting a double helix into two templates. It is a challenging
process insuring the correct copying of the genetic information from the original DNA molecule to
its replications. DNA replication involves numerous enzymes and proteins. It occurs in two basic
steps:
 First step - the DNA helix is unwound at the site of replication
 Second step - new nucleotides are linked by covalent bonding to each growing new strand only
at the 3' end which contains a free hydroxyl group.
DNA Replication
Replication begins at an origin of replication (ori). (refer to above graphic)
 The hydrogen bonds that bind the base pairs are broken allowing the double helix to split or
divide.
 A molecule of a DNA polymerase binds to one strand of the DNA and moves along the strand
using it as a template for assembling a leading strand of nucleotides and reforming a double
helix. In other words, the DNA polymerase “reads” a single DNA strand and uses what it
“reads” as a template to synthesize a complementary strand that binds with the original single
DNA strand.
 A molecule of a second type of DNA polymerase binds to the other template strand as the
double helix opens. This molecule must synthesize discontinuous segments of polynucleotides
(called Okazaki fragments).
 Another enzyme, stitches these together into the lagging strand.
While small circular DNA molecules may replicate from a single ori, large linear DNA molecules
have many oris (hundreds of oris in human DNA). The enzyme that copies DNA is DNA
polymerase.
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Overview of DNA
Replication Primer
DNA replication also requires a primer. The primer is a short stretch
of Ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesized by the enzyme, primase.
During later steps in replication, the RNA primer is removed and
filled in with DNA.
Cells contain several DNA polymerases (see right). One is involved
in chromosome replication, and others are involved in primer removal
and DNA repair.
DNA Polymerase
[Image courtesy of Magnus Manske: English Wikipedia Project]
Food For Thought (with Answers)
Double Strand DNA showing Base Pairing
1. Reference the figure Double strand DNA showing Base Pairing. Based on this figure, what is
the charge (positive or negative) on a molecule of DNA? Explain your answer.
2. The rungs or steps of the ladder are composed of the paired nitrogenous bases. What
interactions hold the bases together? What implications does this have for unzipping the two
strands of DNA?
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Overview of DNA
Summary




DNA is the genetic material with the genetic information stored in the linear array of
nitrogenous bases.
The DNA molecule is composed of the sugar deoxyribose, phosphate groups, and the
nitrogenous bases.
The molecular structure is a double-stranded helix with the sugar and phosphate groups forming
the rail or backbone and the nitrogenous bases forming the steps of the ladder.
DNA replication is a complex process that requires many enzymes and proteins.
An understanding of the DNA molecule, what it consists of, and how it replicates will help you to
better understand the role of MEMS in DNA analysis, disease diagnostics, and gene therapy.
References
1
"What is DNA?" Genetics Home Reference. March 2009.
http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/handbook/basics/dna
2
"Ultraviolet Radiation. How It Affects Life On Earth". Jeannie Allen. Earth Observatory.
September 6, 2001. http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Features/UVB/
3
"Human Genome Project Information". Genomics.energy.gov. 2008.
http://www.ornl.gov/sci/techresources/Human_Genome/home.shtml
4
"DNA Replication, Recombination, and Repair". BioChemisty, Fifth Edition. Berg,
Tymoczko, and Stryer. III.27. W.H. Freeman and Company. NY. 2002.
5
Fundamentals of BioMEMs and Medical Microdevices. Saliterman, Steven S. SPIE Press
Book. 2006.
6
Life: The Science of Biology, 8th edition. Sadava, Heller, Orians, Purves. W.H. Freeman
Company. 2007.
7
DNA interactive site: Dolan DNA Learning Center. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
http://www.dnai.org
8
My DNA site: UMass – Amherst. http://www.biochem.umass.edu/mydna/
9
Marian Koshland Science Museum at the National Academies of Science:
http://www.koshlandsciencemuseum.org/exhibitdna/index.jsp
Glossary of Key Terms
Bacteriophage - A virus that specifically infects bacteria.
Chromosome - A single large macromolecule of DNA with associated proteins, which constitutes a
physically organized form of DNA in a cell.
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) - A long linear polymer formed from nucleotides and shaped like a
double helix; associated with the transmission of genetic information.
DNA microarray - A microchip that holds single-stranded DNA probes and can recognize DNA
strands from samples being tested. A complementary strand combines with the DNA probe forming
a DNA hybrid.
DNA polymerase - An enzyme that mediates or acts as a catalyst for the replication of DNA.
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Overview of DNA
Gene - A length of DNA sequence that contains information that is capable of being translated into
a polypeptide product. This region is also usually associated with regulatory regions of DNA
sequence.
Mutation - Heritable changes in the sequence of DNA bases.
Nitrogenous bases - Five bases are found in nucleic acids: two purine bases (adenine and guanine)
and three pyrimidine bases (cytosine, uracil and thymine). Adenine and guanine occur in both DNA
and RNA. Cytosine and thymine are the pair of pyrimidines in DNA, and cytosine and uracil are
the pair in RNA.
Nucleic acid - Any of a group of long, linear macromolecules, either DNA or various types of RNA,
that carry genetic information directing all cellular functions. Composed of linked nucleotides.
Origin of Replication - The specific site at which unwinding and initiation of DNA replication
occurs.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) - A laboratory technique that can amplify the amount of DNA
from a tiny sample to a large amount within just a few hours. PCR can take one molecule and
produce measurable amounts of identical DNA in a short period of time.
Polymorphism – A change in DNA sequence which is common in a population.
Primase - The enzyme that mediates the replication of short stretches of RNA to initiate DNA
replication by DNA polymerase.
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) - A polymer consisting of a long, usually single-stranded chain of
alternating phosphate and ribose units with the bases adenine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil bonded
to the ribose.
Semi-conservative replication - The process by which DNA is replicated. Each strand of the original
molecule acts as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary DNA molecule.
Transformation - The genetic alteration of a cell resulting from the introduction, uptake and
expression of foreign DNA in molecular biology.
Virulent - The relative ability of a microorganism to cause disease.
Disclaimer
The information contained herein is considered to be true and accurate; however the Southwest Center for
Microsystems Education (SCME) makes no guarantees concerning the authenticity of any statement. SCME
accepts no liability for the content of this unit, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of
the information provided.
Support for this work was provided by the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological
Education (ATE) Program.
This Learning Module was developed in conjunction with Bio-Link, a National Science Foundation
Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Center for Biotechnology @ www.bio-link.org.
Southwest Center for Microsystems Education (SCME)
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Overview of DNA
An Exploration of DNA Concepts
Activity
Participant Guide
Description and Estimated Time to Complete
This activity allows you to further explore DNA concepts and DNA's significance as the genetic
material. This information will help you to better understand how microsystems are used in the
exploration of DNA and how this information is used in the design of new microsystems for the
medical fields.
Estimated Time to Complete
Allow approximately 1 hour
Introduction
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a long polymeric molecule found in most
cells that functions as the carrier of genetic information. The information
carried in the linear sequence of bases in DNA defines an organism.
Changes in the linear sequence, sometimes called mutations or
polymorphisms, can be used to explain differences between individuals and
diagnose diseases such as cancer.
Past and current studies of DNA identify how DNA can be used in biomedical applications. Such
applications include the following:
 Improve diagnosis of a disease
 Test the best treatment options for a disease
 Execute rational drug design
 Create custom drugs
 Utilizing DNA in gene therapy
Activity Objectives and Outcomes
Activity Objectives
 Describe the structure and function of DNA
Activity Outcomes
Upon completion of this activity, you will be able to describe the DNA double helix, how it is copied,
and to understand its significance as genetic material.
Activity – An Exploration of DNA Concepts
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An Exploration of DNA Concepts
1. Go to http://www.dnai.org
Complete the "Code" tutorial
2. Go to http://www.dnai.org
Complete the "Manipulation" tutorial
3. Go to http://www.dnai.org
Complete the "Genome" tutorial
4. Go to http://www.dnai.org
Complete the "Applications" tutorial
5. Answer the Post-Activity Questions.
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An Exploration of DNA Concepts
Post-Activity Questions
"Code"
1. How do the 4 bases (A, T, C, G) fit together in the DNA double helix?
2. Watch the video on "Copying the Code". What is helicase?
3. Watch the video on Translation with the "Reading the Code" section. Why is the ribosome
referred to as a molecular machine?
4. What are histones and what is their function within the cell?
5. What is an operon?
"Manipulation"
1. What is transformation?
2. What is a restriction enzyme?
3. How are pieces of DNA that have been cut with a restriction enzyme pasted back together?
4. What methods of large scale analysis of DNA are described?
5. View the descriptions of DNA microarrays and GeneChips™. Are these large scale analysis
methods examples of BioMEMS?
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An Exploration of DNA Concepts
"Genome"
1. What is a consensus sequence?
2. How are gene density and GC content of DNA related?
3. What is a chromosome?
4. How much DNA is inside every nucleus in our cells?
5. Who headed the private Human Genome Sequencing Project?
"Applications"
1. What is the technique of DNA fingerprinting?
2. What DNA variation did Alec Jeffreys examine in his initial DNA fingerprints?
3. What DNA source has been used to construct a maternal lineage map?
4. DNA profiling?
5. How are DNA segments separated for analysis of STRs?
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An Exploration of DNA Concepts
Matching Activity
In the answer column, indicate with the Match letter (A, B, C…), the term that BEST fits each of the
decriptions.
Answer Description
Match
Small proteins that interact with DNA to aid in
packaging the DNA
A. 6 feet
Devices used to detect DNA presence and activity
B. hydrogen
The amount of DNA inside every nucleus in our cells
C. Gene density
The DNA variation that Alec Jeffreys examined in his
initial DNA fingerprints
D. chromosome
The types of bonds that bind together nitrogenous bases
E. Transformation
A protein that cuts at specific sites on a DNA molecule
F. Histones
The thread-like packaging of DNA molecules
Technique used by the FBI for DNA profiling
A protein that unwinds the DNA double helix during
replication.
The genetic alteration of a bacterial cell by introduction
of DNA from another cell
The percentage of nitrogenous bases in a DNA molecule
that are either guanine or cytosine
DNA source used to construct a maternal lineage map
Nucleotide sequences that are common to or similar in
regulatory regions of DNA
A functional unit of transcription and genetic regulation
found in prokaryotic organisms
G. Operon
H. VNTRs
I. mtDNA
J. DNA microarrays
K. Restriction
enzyme
L. Ribosome
M. helicase
N. GC content
Increases the GC content of DNA
O. STRs
Locks around the mRNA during replication to translate
the genetic information in the mRNA into a string of
amino acids
P. Consensus
sequences
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An Exploration of DNA Concepts
Summary
DNA is the genetic material with the genetic information stored in the linear array of nitrogenous
bases. The DNA molecule is composed of the sugar deoxyribose, phosphate groups, and the
nitrogenous bases. The molecular structure is a double-stranded helix with the sugar and phosphate
groups forming the ladder and the nitrogenous bases forming the steps of the ladder. DNA
replication is a complex process that requires many enzymes and proteins, and follows a
semiconservative model for replication.
References
1.
DNA Interactive: Dolan DNA Learning Center. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
http://www.dnai.org
2.
Overview of DNA: SCME Primary Knowledge Unit
Disclaimer
The information contained herein is considered to be true and accurate; however the Southwest
Center for Microsystems Education (SCME) makes no guarantees concerning the authenticity of
any statement. SCME accepts no liability for the content of this unit, or for the consequences of any
actions taken on the basis of the information provided.
Support for this work was provided by the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological
Education (ATE) Program.
This Learning Module was developed in conjunction with Bio-Link, a National Science Foundation
Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Center for Biotechnology @ www.bio-link.org.
Southwest Center for Microsystems Education (SCME)
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An Exploration of DNA Concepts
DNA Overview Activity:
Exploring DNA Applications
Participant Guide
Description and Estimated Time to Complete
This activity provides the opportunity for you to further explore the applications of DNA and its
significance as the genetic material. This will help you to better understand how microsystems are
used for DNA analysis.
Estimated Time to Complete
Allow approximately 1 hour
Introduction
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a long polymeric molecule found in most cells that functions as the
carrier of genetic information. The information carried in the linear sequence of bases in DNA
defines an organism. Changes in the linear sequence, sometimes called mutations or
polymorphisms, explain differences between individuals and diagnose diseases such as cancer.
Past and current studies of DNA identify how DNA can be used in biomedical applications. Such
applications include the following:
 Improve diagnosis of a disease
 Test the best treatment options for a disease
 Execute rational drug design
 Create custom drugs
 Utilizing DNA in gene therapy
Activity Objectives and Outcomes
Activity Objectives
 Describe microsystem applications that rely on DNA
Activity Outcomes
Upon completion of this activity, you will be able to explain ways in which DNA and DNA
concepts are used in different fields.
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Exploring DNA Applications Activity
Activity: Exploring DNA Applications
Description
In this activity you will explore DNA's role in applications such as infectious and inherited diseases.
You will also continue your exploration of the basic concepts of DNA.
1. Go to the Infectious Diseases tutorial at the Koshland Science Museum.
(URL: https://www.koshland-science-museum.org/sites/all/exhibits/exhib_infectious/index.jsp )
NOTE: If for some reason the link is broken, go to the Koshland Science Museum website and
do a search for “Infectious Diseases”. This should bring up the tutorial.
2. Complete the tutorial.
3. Complete the tutorial “Putting DNA to Work”.
(URL: https://www.koshland-science-museum.org/sites/all/exhibits/exhibitdna/index.jsp )
a. Read through the material and complete all of the activities.
b. Be sure to take notes and write down any questions you may have.
c. Discuss your results with other students.
4. Complete the Post-Activity Questions at the end of this procedure.
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Exploring DNA Applications Activity
Post-Activity Questions
1. What is a virus chip?
2. In what time frame was the SARS disease agent identified using the virus chip?
3. How are the dots visualized?
4. Describe how DNA sequences are used in forensics to identify a specific individual.
5. Discuss an application of DNA and DNA sequences (genes) in agriculture. You may discuss an
example that was used in this tutorial OR research another example (for example, bovine genes).
Just be sure to include the sources for your discussion.
6. What part(s) of these tutorials did you find the most interesting and why?
Southwest Center for Microsystems Education (SCME)
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Exploring DNA Applications Activity
Summary
DNA is the genetic material with the genetic information stored in the linear array of nitrogenous
bases. Many fields from forensics, agricultural to biomedical are using the information found in
DNA to identify specific individual, specific diseases and variations of diseases, and identify the
specific gene(s) in plants and animals that contribute to specific trait.
References
1.
Putting DNA to Work : Marian Koshland Science Museum. https://www.koshland-sciencemuseum.org/sites/all/exhibits/exhibitdna/index.jsp
2.
DNA Interactive: Dolan DNA Learning Center. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
http://www.dnai.org
3.
Overview of DNA: SCME Primary Knowledge Unit
Disclaimer
The information contained herein is considered to be true and accurate; however the Southwest Center for
Microsystems Education (SCME) makes no guarantees concerning the authenticity of any statement. SCME
accepts no liability for the content of this unit, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of
the information provided.
Support for this work was provided by the National Science Foundation's Advanced Technological
Education (ATE) Program.
This Learning Module was developed in conjunction with Bio-Link, a National Science Foundation
Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Center for Biotechnology @ www.bio-link.org.
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Exploring DNA Applications Activity
Southwest Center for Microsystems Education (SCME)
Learning Modules available for download @ scme-nm.org
MEMS Introductory Topics
MEMS Fabrication
MEMS History
MEMS: Making Micro Machines DVD and LM
(Kit)
Units of Weights and Measures
A Comparison of Scale: Macro, Micro, and Nano
Introduction to Transducers
Introduction to Sensors
Introduction to Actuators
Problem Solving – A Systematic Approach
Wheatstone Bridge (Pressure Sensor Model Kit)
Crystallography for Microsystems (Crystallography
Kit)
Deposition Overview Microsystems
Photolithography Overview for Microsystems
Etch Overview for Microsystems (Rainbow Wafer
and Anisotropic Etch Kits)
MEMS Micromachining Overview
LIGA Micromachining Simulation Activities (LIGA
Simulation Kit)
Manufacturing Technology Training Center Pressure
Sensor Process (Three Activity Kits)
MEMS Innovators Activity (Activity Kit)
A Systematic Approach to Problem Solving
Introduction to Statistical Process Control
MEMS Applications
MEMS Applications Overview
Microcantilevers (Dynamic Cantilever Kit)
Micropumps Overview
BioMEMS
BioMEMS Overview
BioMEMS Applications Overview
DNA Overview
DNA to Protein Overview
Cells – The Building Blocks of Life
Biomolecular Applications for bioMEMS
BioMEMS Therapeutics Overview
BioMEMS Diagnostics Overview
Clinical Laboratory Techniques and MEMS
MEMS for Environmental and Bioterrorism
Applications
Regulations of bioMEMS
DNA Microarrays (GeneChip® Model Kit available)
Revision: January 2014
Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology: The World Beyond Micro
(Supports the film of the same name by Silicon
Run Productions)
Safety
Hazardous Materials
Material Safety Data Sheets
Interpreting Chemical Labels / NFPA
Chemical Lab Safety
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Check our website regularly for the most recent
versions of our Learning Modules.
For more information about SCME
and its Learning Modules and kits,
visit our website
scme-nm.org or contact
Dr. Matthias Pleil at
[email protected]
www.scme-nm.org