Biotechnology-Based Diagnostic Tests

• Connected to cancer genetics
• Time required: 45 minutes

Immortality through uncontrolled cell division is a characteristic of cancer cells. The p53 gene is a tumor suppressor gene which prevents this. Mutations in this gene are present in more than 50% of cancers. Testing people for mutations in their p53 gene can indicate an increased risk in developing cancer. These tests raise intriguing ethical questions for both the individual tested and the family of an individual who chooses to be tested. In this experiment, students determine a pedigree for a family suspected to be carriers of mutations in their p53 genes. A DNA test indicates their likelihood of developing cancer.

Kit includes: instructions, Ready-to-Load™ QuickStrip™ DNA samples, UltraSpec-Agarose™ powder, practice gel loading solution, electrophoresis buffer, calibrated pipette, microtipped transfer pipettes, InstaStain® Blue and FlashBlue™ stain.

Required, but not included: electrophoresis apparatus, power supply, automatic micropipette and tips, balance, microwave or hot plate, visualization system.