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With minimal equipment requirements and a quick and straightforward protocol, students will use the BioBits® system to visualize the flow of genetic information and monitor transcription and translation in real time through fluorescence. This activity serves as an excellent interactive tool for learning the central dogma of molecular biology and exposes students to cutting-edge synthetic biology. Includes all the reagents and hardware you need to explore gene expression in any learning setting.

Includes all the reagents and hardware you need in any learning setting!

BioBits® pellets are tiny molecular factories that can create a variety of proteins—from brightly colored fluorescent proteins to functional enzymes—without the need for cell culture. When they are dry, BioBits® pellets are dormant, but they can be activated by simply adding water. Researchers have been using cell-free reactions in their laboratories for years, with applications ranging from novel therapeutic discovery to field diagnostics. Now, the BioBits® cell-free system makes this cutting-edge technology accessible anywhere to anyone interested in learning molecular biology, and it is an excellent teaching tool to enhance biology education both within and beyond the classroom.

With minimal equipment requirements and a quick and straightforward protocol, students will use the BioBits® system to visualize the flow of genetic information and monitor transcription and translation in real time through fluorescence. This hands-on activity serves as an excellent interactive tool for learning the central dogma of molecular biology and exposes students to cutting-edge synthetic biology. The BioBits® Central Dogma @home version includes all the reagents and hardware you need to explore gene expression in any learning setting.

This activity utilizes micropipetting and cell-free protein synthesis techniques. Time requirement: 30 min, plus 10-min periods, separated by 8 to 72 hours. Store BioBits® pellets in a freezer (–20° C) and use within 6 months of receipt. If a freezer is not available, pellets are viable for 3 months when stored in a refrigerator (4° C).