Education

Exploring Synthetic Biology and DNA Extraction with High School Students

As part of our scientific outreach activities, we had the opportunity to collaborate with the iGEM community initiative Synbio101, which aims to bring synthetic biology to the scientists of tomorrow through frugal DIY kits, 3D lessons and modules, and free interactive videos, increasing the accessibility of this novel field to younger audiences.

Richard and Sakti kindly provided us with diferent modules, and we decided to implement the DNA Extraction module as part of our science communication and educational activities. We translated that module to make it accessible to 117 high school students from Villa Hidalgo, Jalisco, Mexico from the institutions Preparatoria Regional Lagos de Moreno Módulo Villa Hidalgo and Colegio Villa Hidalgo.

In the sessions with the students, we explained the concept of synthetic biology, its impact, DNA, the cell, and its parts. Additionally, a hands-on activity on extracting DNA from fruit was conducted, and they were taught how to properly use a graduated cylinder.

The students first performed a mechanical process to break the cell walls of a banana or tomato, depending on the case. Then they added 10 milliliters of water, two tablespoons of detergent, and one tablespoon of salt to a container and mixed it with the fruit.

In another container, they used a coffee filter to strain the mixture. Ten milliliters of isopropyl or ethyl alcohol were added to the filtrate, depending on the availability at each institution. The result was left to rest for a few minutes, and a white layer appeared on the surface, which was discussed with the students, including the importance of DNA extraction, the dangers of genetic modifications, and the possibilities we have.

We talked about the fall armyworm as a pest and the economic, environmental, and health impacts of using pesticides commonly employed to control it. We explained the alternative we are developing, how we aim to produce it, and the results achieved so far.

There was participation and interest from the students during the various sessions. Synthetic biology and its potential are novel concepts for the community.