Add to List

This kit explores the molecular basis of the inherited ability to taste the bitter chemical phenylthiocarbamide (PTC). Students determine their ability to taste PTC using taste paper. They then use safe saline mouthwash and Chelex® extraction to obtain a sample of their own DNA and amplify a 221-nucleotide region of the PTC taste receptor gene.

Advanced - For experienced high school and college classes; requires some basic technical skill.

This PTC Taster: Extraction, Amplification, and Electrophoresis Kit with Ethidium Bromide and 0.2-mL Tubes (with voucher) explores the molecular basis of the inherited ability to taste the bitter chemical phenylthiocarbamide (PTC), which was first described in the 1930s by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory scientist Albert Blakeslee. Students determine their ability to taste PTC using taste paper. They then use safe saline mouthwash and Chelex® extraction to obtain a sample of their own DNA and amplify a 221-nucleotide region of the PTC taste receptor gene. The 2 alleles differ by a single nucleotide, so restriction digestion of the amplified product followed by gel electrophoresis effectively differentiates the 2 alleles. One allele strongly correlates to the ability to taste PTC. After scoring their SNP genotypes, students determine how well the SNP genotypes actually correlate to tasting.

Kit provides materials for 25 PCR reactions and restriction digests. Kit also includes a voucher to request perishable materials later at your convenience. Contact us or return the voucher to request delivery of perishables.

   This item is sold and shipped to schools and businesses only. Not available to individuals or residential addresses. For substitution suggestions, please call us at 800.334.5551 (8am to 8pm, ET, Monday-Friday).