Creating a mutuant gene
|
Principal
Investigator
|
Phyllis
R. Strauss Matthews Distinguished Professor Biology Department Northeastern University |
|
RET
Teachers
|
Julie Bard and Azizeh Nurridin |
| Research Abstract | Every
cell in the body damages its DNA as a natural part of cell
physiology. Every cell has the capacity to repair that damage. My lab studies
the biochemistry and cell biology of DNA repair, in particular, the pathway called
base excision repair (BER). We are asking about the function of AP endonuclease,
a key protein in BER. The teachers' project will be to construct the gene for
a particular mutant of AP endonuclease. Teachers will learn how to handle plasmid
DNA containing
the gene, how to design experiments to create a particular mutation and
how to create the mutant gene using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Teachers will learn to handle very small volumes accurately
(microliters), how to analyze DNA by restriction endonuclease digestion
and agarose gel electrophoresis, how to make the mutant gene using PCR,
how to insert the mutant gene into a plasmid vector and how to select
for the mutant gene by transforming and selecting the right E. coli. If
there is time, teachers will do a test induction and examine expression
of the protein using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. |
| Research Experience | RETs will be involved in all aspects of this research assignment and will participate in weekly group meetings to present their findings and discuss technical difficulties. RETs will read as widely as possible to appreciate the background and rational for the project in which they are involved. |
| Helpful Skills or Interests | Some microscopy experience is helpful, but not required. Training will be provided as necessary. |
