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Unit 18 Assignment 4 Genetic Engineering (PASS)
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Assignment 4Over the course of a year, being first year Level 3 BTEC applied students during genetics there were three main practicals
which were conducted, in an attempt for us to gather a better understanding of different techniques used in regard to
DNA. The first practical which was conducted was known as the ‘Gene in the bottle’ practical which was carried out in
October 2018.
(1) ‘Gene in the bottle’ Practical (extraction of cheek cells D.N.A)
Aim
The main aim of this practical was to extract the DNA from our own check cells, before collecting the DNA and storing the
DNA in a glass pendent (necklace.)
Introduction
DNA obtains its name from deoxyribose nucleic acid a type of nucleic acid, however, gets its significance from its unique
structure. DNA is what contains the instructions for making each individual. DNA has a huge importance as it determines
how an individual looks, what type of blood type an individual will be and even an individuals tendency to get some
diseases. Deoxyribose nucleic acid is found inside the nucleus of almost every cell within an individual’s body. During this
practical membranes present around the cells of the cheek will become broken down as well as their nuclei to allow the
students to see their very own DNA.
Safety Considerations
In relation to this practical there are numerous control measures that need to be followed to limit any possible hazard and
health risks and these are as follows;
Safety goggles and a laboratory coat must be worn at all times which will be sufficient to take account of
significant risks and most hazards.
Ethanol through inhalation and contact with the skin is HARMFUL. Therefore, avoid inhalation and contact with
skin if possible.
Flammable liquids must be kept away from sources of ignition.
All waste immediately after use must be placed into a labelled container.
You are reminded of the need for good laboratory practice to maintain a safe working environment.
Hazards
HIGHLY FLAMABLE = Ethanol
HARMFUL = Ethanol, Protease Enzyme
Procedure
To make things simpler this procedure is able to be split up into five steps.
Step 1 & 2 involves collecting and breaking open cells and this is carried out as follows;
Step 1 and 2 involves collecting as many cheek cells as possible, to do this an individual will need to gently chew the inside
of their mouth for 30 seconds before rinsing their mouth with a small amount of water. For success ample cell collection is
critical. For the best results to be obtained, ensure the recommended amount of time is spent collecting the cells.
1. Firstly, obtain a 30 cm 3 cup containing 3cm3 of water labelled with your initials. This is to collect your cheek cells
in one they have been produced.
2. Next, chew the insides of your mouth gently for a time period of thirty seconds. This is to collect cheek cells,
therefore, ensure you don’t chew too hard as it’s NOT helpful to draw blood.
3. Take the 3cm³ of water from the cup and pour into your mouth before vigorously swilling the water in your
mouth for thirty seconds. This ensures that all the cheek cells are spat back out and none are left stuck to the
side of the mouth. Ensure during this step the water isn’t swallowed.
4. The water and check cells can then be expelled back into the 30cm³ cup.
5. The water mouth wash is then poured from the cup and into a 15cm 3 tube which needs to be labelled you’re
your initials. This is because the tube has a lid and will need to be inverted at a later step.
6. After that, the tube of lysis buffer from your workstation needs to be obtained, before adding 2cm ³ of this lysis
buffer into the test tube.
7. Finally, the cap needs to be placed back onto the tube. Then gently invert the tube five times, DO NOT SHAKE
THE TUBE. During this time, any changes observed of the cells need to be noted down. This is to ensure that the
lysis buffer is mixed with the water mouthwash.
Step 3 involves the removal of proteins and this is carried out as follows;
1. Firstly, 5 drops of protease solution and 5 drops of the salt solution need to be added to the 15cm ³ test tube
which contain the cells extract.
2. Next, the cell extract tube needs to be capped and gently invert it five times to mix it.
3. Then, place the cell extract tube in the beaker or test tube holder place into a 50 °C water bath for a time period
of ten minutes. This allows the protease to work, this is because it only works at certain temperatures.
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