Description
Watch the PCR product glow—without the need for gels!
Intermediate—Easy to perform; requires some background knowledge.
In this hands-on activity, students perform a modified version of a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). qPCR monitors the amount of PCR product produced in real time using fluorescent dyes or probes. This lab modifies the reaction so that students can observe the change in fluorescence firsthand using low-cost equipment and without the need for a qPCR machine. It is an excellent illustrative tool for learning how fluorescence and PCR can be used to quantify nucleic acids while also providing an introduction to the process of PCR in general. During the activity, students have the opportunity to practice hands-on skills such as micropipetting, PCR, qPCR, and gel electrophoresis (optional). This activity can be completed in one 120-minute block or extended into 3 class periods. Kit contains enough reagents for 8 lab groups (32 students).
Note: These reagents require frozen storage. Shelf life is 12 months when stored at -20° C.