Using an Alu Insertion Polymorphism to Study Human Populations
Topic: Population Genetics
Organism: Human
Grade Level: Middle/high school
Organism: Human
Grade Level: Middle/high school
Use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify a DNA sequence from chromosome 16 to look for the insertion of a short nucleotide sequence called Alu within a noncoding region of the chromosome. Footlocker kit available with gel boxes or E-gels.
Essential Equipment (in addition to standard lab supplies):
● Electrophoresis supplies (camera, chamber, power supplies, and transilluminator)
● Microcentrifuge
● Micropipets (1–1000 uL)
● Thermal cycler
Resources:
Protocol Information
Preparation time:
Minimal
Involved
Equipment required:
Common
Specialized
Conceptual difficulty:
Easy
Challenging
Technical difficulty:
Easy
Challenging
Teachers
Students