With this activity, students engage in a complete investigation in which they gather sample food items, extract DNA from the samples, amplify the DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and use agarose gel electrophoresis to test for the presence of two DNA sequences that are present in >85% of genetically modified (GM) crops: the 35S promoter of the cauliflower mosaic virus and the terminator of the nopaline synthase gene of Agrobacterium tumefaciens.
- Extract DNA from your favorite foods
- Use PCR and gel electriphoresis to determine whether the foods contain GMO ingredients
- Conduct a post-lab debate activity about the benefits, risks, and perceptions of genetically engineered food
- Consumable refill kit contains PCR master mix, primers, positive control, PCR molecular weight ruler, Orange G loading dye; education use only
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