Students Experiment with DNA

On Tuesday, Nov. 14, 1996 students from three St. Landry Parish Schools participated in the Molecular Biology Outreach Program. The MBOP offers students an exciting opportunity to explore life as a unique aspect of planet Earth enabling them to discover many attributes of DNA and DNA recombinant technologies. The event was coordinated by St. Landry Parish Gifted Program and was held at North Central High School in one of the science labs. G/T instructor Mr. Michaeal Lombas with the aid of G/T teachers Karen Ryder, Dianne De Jean and WInnie Auzene (G/T Coordinator) provided students from North Central, Port Barre and Opelousas Catholic hands on experience with modern molecular Biology. Students used Agarose Gel Electrophoresis to separate DNA molecules based on size. By this method a DNA "fingerprint" can be made for any organism, and a comparison of DNA can be done to establish genetic relationships between organisms. Students also used restriction enzymes to cut DNA into parts and recombine then with other DNA fragments, exploring how DNA can be altered and changed to create new life forms. The lab, which took are full school day to complete was a success, and a rewarding experience for those who participated.