Publication details
PRACTICAL LESSONS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY: SEX DETERMINATION IN BIRDS
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2010 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION, 2010 |
| Citation | |
| Keywords | innovation of practical; DNA isolation; PCR; electrophoresis; restriction reaction; molecular biology |
| Description | During winter semester 2009-2010, new practicals focused on the method of molecular biology were introduced into the syllabus of Biology and Genetics. During practicals, students worked on a complex task of bird sex identification from biologic material. The principle of sex identification in birds is based on restriction analysis of PCR product of the gene CHD (Chromo-Helicase-DNA binding gene). At the beginning of the semester, the students obtained information about an innovation of the practicals and the possibility to examine blood sampled from their parrot or other birds. Otherwise, students were provided with tissues from pheasant male or female. The practicals run parallel in two rooms, both of them equipped with required material and machines. The pipettes, DNA isolation sets, regencies for PCR and restriction reaction and other material were shared by group of 3-4 students, however every student tested one sample. During three lessons, students prepared bird tissues or blood lysates, isolated DNA, prepared PCR and subsequently restriction reaction of PC R product, followed by gel electrophoresis and evaluation of the result in UV light. Students appreciated the innovated practicals, especially the possibility to acquire new experience with molecular biology methods that contributed to their understanding of the principles of described methods together with their application potential. These practicals were financed by the European Social Fund and the State Budget of the Czech Republic by project "Innovation in Animal Protection and Welfare Education", number CZ. 107/2.2.00/07.0165. |