This dye electrophoresis lab offers students a close-up look at the invisible world of microbes that surrounds us.
Students work as part of a team of NASA microbiologists to analyze simulated bacterial DNA from the International Space Station (ISS).
Before a new crew arrives on station, students must use gel electrophoresis to determine whether a dangerous pathogen lurks before a new crew of astronauts arrives on station.
Based on authentic space biotechnology, this lab serves as a fun and engaging introduction to DNA analysis and gel electrophoresis.
Microbe Hunters Dye Electrophoresis Lab features:
- An engaging and accessible introduction to gel electrophoresis
- Safe, non-toxic dyes that are directly visible without gel staining
- Pre-aliquoted samples and premeasured agarose tablets for easy prep
- Gel electrophoresis reagents included: TBE electrophoresis buffer and 8 Agarose Tabs™
- Compatible with Bandit™, blueGel™, and traditional gel electrophoresis systems
- A low-cost jumping-off point to explore microbiology, biotechnology, and molecular identification!
This lab kit provides enough reagents for eight lab groups:
- 8 Load Ready™ Strips (tube strips containing pre-aliquoted dye samples)
- TBE electrophoresis buffer
- 8 Agarose Tabs™
Supplied by user:
- Distilled or deionized H2O (to dissolve TBE buffer)
- Gel electrophoresis system (lab is compatible with Bandit™, blueGel™, or other gel electrophoresis systems)
- Variable volume micropipettes, or fixed-volume minipettes, and tips
Required equipment:
- Micropipettes and tips
- Gel electrophoresis system (e.g., Bandit™, blueGel™, or other gel electrophoresis systems)
Storage notes:
- Reagents must be used within 12 months of shipment
- Agarose and buffer can be stored at room temperature
- Refrigeration is recommended for blue dye samples to prevent evaporation
