Plasmids

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Plasmids

plasmids

Learning about plasmids is invaluable to any biology student. By studying these structures, students will develop a deeper understanding of DNA, genetics, and cell structure. In this article, we will outline the basic information about plasmids that students will find useful, as well as tips on incorporating lessons on plasmids into your biology curriculum.

What Are Plasmids?

Plasmids are small, circular, self-replicating DNA molecules found in some bacteria. While they only carry a few genes, they are noteworthy because they are able to replicate independently from the rest of the cell. Plasmids are most commonly found in bacteria, but have been found in a few eukaryotic organisms, typically a mitochondrial plasmids. Plasmids consist of two strands and are usually circular. While some cells only have a single plasmid, others have thousands. Studying the plasmid differences between cells will help students understand the nuances of biology. 

Plasmids and Biotechnology

Plasmids are an important part of biotechnology. Because these DNA structures have been crucial to our study of genetics as they exist outside of the chromosome, are able to self-replicate, and can be genetically modified. Plasmids have been used to help scientists learn about gene manipulation and develop drug treatments. Historically, drugs like insulin have been developed using plasmid vectors. Students will be fascinated to learn about how scientists are studying this molecule to create new treatments for fatal diseases. 

Purchasing Plasmids

Carolina offers a variety of plasmid DNA and other materials needed for working with plasmids in the classroom. This green phenotype plasmid is one of the most popular as bacteria that have taken up the protein will exhibit a phenotype that glows under UV light for easy identification.. All of our plasmid and lambda DNA can be found here. 

Using Plasmids in the Classroom

Working with plasmids can be easy if you use the right techniques and supplies. While plasmids do not pose a biohazard danger and are stable under regular lab conditions, certain tools are necessary to keep these molecules in optimum shape. An incubator, hot water bath, and ice are needed to transfer your cells for viewing.  Reference this video for more information. 

Experiments to Try

There are plenty of classroom activities that will help your students understand the importance of plasmids. Our Advanced Bacterial Conjugation Kit will help students learn how genes transfer between bacterial strains. In this experiment, students will streak conjugated bacteria on antibiotic selective media to determine which E. Coli strain is the donor strain. It’s a great way for students to learn how bacteria can use plasmids to share genetic information. Because the experiment is conducted over several days, you will have plenty of classroom time to explain complex topics with your students. Other resources for microbiology and biotechnology lessons can be found here. 

Carolina offers all the tools you need to create dynamic, interesting lessons on plasmids, as well as materials for exploring other topics in biology. Use our online store to purchase everything you need for your experiments, and be sure to take advantage of our free educational resources as well.

 
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