06 April 2007

Labrats Update by Shawn Carlson: Lesson Twelve

Did you know that you can extract DNA from living things in your kitchen? Well, it's easy to do using chemicals you already have around your home. This week, I'm going to show you how.

Welcome to the study of molecular biology. DNA is the blueprint of life itself. This remarkable molecule contains the genetic code that defines what a particular organism is and, to a very large extent, how it behaves. You probably thought that professional scientists could extract and purify it this exotic substance. But it's actually easy to extract and purify DNA from cells. And you're going do it today!

By the time you've completed this week's lesson, you'll know all how to extract and purify the molecule of inheritance from just about anything that was once alive. You will be able to use chemicals that are probably already in your house to extract DNA from fruits, vegetables, meats and just about anything that used to be alive. And this will prepare you to explore the remarkable world of molecular biology from the comfort of your kitchen.

Find out more by reading Lesson Twelve here.

See you there.

Dr. Shawn


 

Shawn Carlson, Ph.D. Executive Director of the Society for Amateur Scientists and founder of Labrats.