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Exploring Mutant Organisms Lab
In this online activity, students explore physical and behavioral mutations in two organisms—Drosophila melanogaster (the common fruit fly) and C. elegans (a microscopic worm found in soil)—to highlight the genotype-phenotype relationship and illustrate the role of mutations in human disease. This activity, which supplements a hands-on lab at the Dolan DNA Learning Center's Harlem DNA Lab, shows students how to document and analyze the effects of mutations on the two organisms and explores how model organisms are used to find cures and treatment for human ailments. The online materials include lively and informative visuals—such as animations of DNA mutations and sickle cell anemia. In video interviews, two Nobel laureates discuss aspects of their groundbreaking work with C. elegans: Sydney Brenner explains why the worm is a perfect model organism; and John Sulston discusses the concept of the unity of life, noting that half of the nematode’s 20,000 genes have clear counterparts in the human being. The Exploring Mutant Organisms Lab is one of six experiments available at the Lab Center's Internet site. The experiments cover key genetics and biotechnology concepts taught in middle school and high school science classes.
Mutant Organisms Lab
In this interactive online activity, students explore physical and behavioral mutations in two organisms—Drosophila melanogaster (the common fruit fly) and C. elegans.
Media: Flash MultimediaProgram Director: David Micklos
Award Years: 1990, 1994, 1999, 2007
Summary: Cold Spring Harbor is a private, non-profit research and education institution in Cold Spring Harbor, New York. Its HHMI-funded initiatives include:
- An integrated laboratory and computer system that allows students to examine their own DNA polymorphisms, share data via the Internet and reconstruct human evolution;
- A large-scale program, Genetics as a Model for Whole Learning, that brings hands-on genetics into middle school classrooms, involving more than 10,000 students per year from 22 school districts and five private schools in metropolitan New York; and
- A professional development program, a close collaboration between the Dolan DNA Learning Center and the New York City Department of Education, which enables teachers to deliver hands-on, inquiry-based experiments in genetics and biotechnology to eighth- and ninth-graders. An online Lab Center—a mini-website including animations, interviews, class results, follow-up activities and projects—supports the program.