Students will separate a mixture of proteins using SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). PAGE is a powerful analytical technique with numerous applications in modern biology. Suggested organisms to compare include various fishes, mammals, poultry and/or sea foods, all of which are available from a grocery store. Students will develop an experimental design, prepare samples of muscle tissue from various organisms, observe the process of electrophoresis, and analyze their results. Analysis consists of comparing protein bands according to their molecular weight positions on the gel.

This workshop is operated separately or as part of a four-part DNA Series including DNA Profiling in the Courtroom, DNA Forensic Investigation, and DNA and Public Policy.

Grades: 9 - 12