Biotechnology
Chopped
Grade Level: High School
What are the newest techniques in the creation of new hybrid plants? For decades we have relied upon artificial selection, plant breeding, and genetic manipulation using genes from other organisms to impart beneficial traits. The latter has been the center of many controversy’s and misunderstandings around Genetically Modified Organisms. But what if we could improve crops by only utilizing the naturally occurring genes inside the crops already? Gene editing is a relatively new technology that allows just that, the direct editing of the genome already in the crops themselves. The ability to change the DNA in an organism has enabled corn geneticists to turn undesirable traits off without adding genes. A perfect example of this improvement would be a type of corn called Waxy Corn which has a higher percentage amylopectin than other varieties. This amylopectin is then milled into “corn starch” and utilized extensively in the food industry. This form of Waxy corn was originally developed through selective breeding, crossing varieties with a gene mutation to turn off the production of a particular protein consequently causing the corn to produce MORE amylopectin per corn kernel. Due to the
nature of selective breeding this trait has been limited to the varieties with direct lineage to the originally mutated strains. However, through using the CRISPR-Cas9 system geneticists can turn off that same gene in other high yielding corn varieties to produce new sources of Waxy Corn. This allows us to combine multiple positive traits in one variety, maximizing yield AND increasing amylopectin at the same time. Using the “Chopped” MiniPCR lab, students will use this system to cut DNA using the enzyme and two different guide RNA molecules and the CRISPR nuclease. A gel electrophoresis is used to determine the size of the fragments produced.
Genetic Cut and Paste Using CRISPR-Cas9 to edit DNA
Teaching the Lesson
- Kansas College and Career Ready Standards
- Learning Objectives
- Materials
- Safety Considerations
- Procedures for Instruction
- Preparation Procedure
- Background Information
- CRISPR Webinars and Other Resources
- Classroom Discussion
- Procedure for Lab
- Teacher Resources
- Lab Analysis
- Reflection and Conclusion
- Science and Agriculture Careers
- Sources
- Disclaimer
About Kansas Corn STEM
Investing in Kansas teachers and students is a priority for the Kansas Corn Commission. We are committed to providing materials and training to support STEM education while fostering an understanding of how corn farming and agriculture fit into our daily lives. Professional development workshops are offered to teachers seeking to expand their knowledge and inquiry-based teaching skills. Workshop participants receive free lab supplies needed for the lessons.
Workshop InfoThis lesson is the work product of the Kansas Corn Commission. Our lessons are written in collaboration with Kansas teachers for use in the classroom. Teachers may copy and share this curriculum. Use of this product for commercial or promotional use is prohibited without express permission of Kansas Corn.
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