Real-Life Roslin Research | DNA Detectives: Dog Health & Disease
A half-day workshop focused on DNA gel electrophoresis. Students will be introduced to the work of Dr Jeffery Schoenebeck and will analyse DNA samples to discover their genotype for an important, health-related gene. The workshop is supported by scientists, technicians and vets working on our campus, and includes an opportunity for students to find out more about studying and working in science.
Learning Level: Secondary school (age 15+)
Location: Easter Bush Science Outreach Centre, The University of Edinburgh
Minimum attendance: 16*
Maximum attendance: 30
Duration: 3 hours
Times: 10am - 1pm
Cost: £15 per pupil (international students)
Thank you for your interest in this workshop, this academic year we will not be offering this workshop as part of our learning programme. To remain updated about our workshops, events and exciting opportunities please sign up to our mailing list and/or follow us on Twitter @EBSOClab. In the meantime, why not check out our classroom resources that are free to download!
Workshop Description
Scientists have discovered a DNA mutation linked to breathing problems in popular dog breeds. Breathing difficulties are most often associated with flat-faced breeds, such as French bulldogs and pugs, but scientists have found the mutation is also carried by Norwich terriers, which have longer noses. In this workshop, students will learn about the work of Roslin Institute scientists and analyse four DNA samples to look for a mutation in a health-related gene.
We all enjoyed it! We hope that we will be able to come back next year, as it was a really great experience! Thank you for making the visit possible.
Learning Objectives
- To appreciate that scientists work to solve real-world problems
- To understand that we can identify the genotype of individuals using DNA technology
- To recognise that the identification of health-related genes can help with the prevention of disease
- To realise that genotype and phenotype analysis can inform future disease-prevention strategies
- To interpret and discuss experimental results
Techniques used
- Micropipetting
- Centrifugation
- DNA gel electrophoresis
Workshop timeline
- Introduction to the breathing problems found in dogs
- Introduction to micropipettes
- Preparation of DNA samples
- Introduction to genome-wide assication studies (GWAS)
- DNA electrophoresis using agarose gels
- Analysis and interpretation of results
- Discussion with scientists from the Roslin Institute
Availability
Thank you for your interest in this workshop, this academic year we will not be offering this workshop as part of our learning programme. Why not check out classroom resources that are free to download!
Downloadable Resources
Risk Assessment |
| To be added |
Workshop Descriptions |
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