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Module 1: Is DNA a Charged
Molecule?
Module 2: Sorting DNA Molecules
Module 3: Comparing Different Samples
of DNA
Module 4: Cutting DNA Molecules
More modules coming soon.
Understanding Your DNA -- Learn by Doing (Virtually!)
The MyDNA Discovery Modules are designed to engage you in activities that simulate real laboratory activities. The modules start by introducing you to the physical properties of DNA, because all molecular research relies on the physical differences between molecules.
The way we’ve come to understand our DNA is by studying individual regions of the DNA – mostly, what we call "genes." In order to study a single gene in any detail, we must work with it all by itself, away from all the rest of the DNA. There are roughly 30,000 genes in human DNA, so we must somehow separate the gene we're interested in from 29,999 other genes – and from the vast majority of human DNA that doesn’t even contain genes!
It’s not a simple task-- nevertheless, scientists have developed simple, effective techniques for studying specific fragments of DNA. Techniques such as these have enabled scientists to read the code of the human genome, the entire collection of human genes.
The techniques we use to isolate a gene are based on the physical properties of DNA. By "physical properties" we mean the size, shape, and charge (positive vs. negative) of the DNA, and its sequence, which incorporates all three. The properties are very useful tools for separating and identifying different regions of DNA.
Use our MyDNA Discovery Modules to find out for yourself
about the properties of DNA, and then learn how to use those properties
to isolate genes (and other fragments of DNA). We will help you to experience
the world of DNA in a friendly, approachable format. You will come away
with a new understanding of your DNA.
Using the Modules
The Discovery Modules require the Shockwave Plug-In. If you don't have Shockwave, visit the Macromedia Shockwave download site - it's quick and easy to get, and it's free.
Once you have the plug-in installed, start with the first module, Is DNA a Charged Molecule? When you have completed a module, move on to the next using the links at the top of each module page. Each module assumes you understand the ones preceeding it. Have fun!
Charge: the electrical state of a substance, i.e., positivie (+), negative (-), or neutral.
DNA sequence: the specific order of subunits (bases) required to form a specific gene or region of DNA.
Gene: the fundamental unit in the transmission of hereditary characterisyics.
Genetic code: the rules followed when translating DNA to protein.
Human genome: the DNA sequence of all the genetic information found in humans.
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