Genetic Tech Investigations

Genetic technologies like DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, and live cell imaging are vital for diagnosing diseases. This module highlights the technology researchers use to explore molecular processes and understand genetic disorders. It provides a different spin on the pathway from DNA to mRNA to protein, while reinforcing molecular genetics concepts.

Students who complete the unit Exploring Genetics through Genetic Disorders should have the prerequisite knowledge for this module.

For those who have not completed the above unit, a list of prerequisite learning objectives and suggested review materials can be found here.

• Students will recognize that genetic technologies employ biochemical processes.
• Students will understand and apply their understandings that information transfer gone wrong could be observable at any level: DNA, mRNA, protein, protein function.
• Students will use data from genetic technologies to draw conclusions about what may be happening to identify disorders and predict consequences.

These materials were designed to be used flexibly; either together as a lesson, or separately to supplement other materials, in any order. Here is an example of how we used the materials together during field testing, along with discussion prompts that connect them to careers.

Credits