Cranberry DNA Extraction Lab
Why would anyone want to know about the DNA in food?
Genetic diversity is extremely important for farmers and consumers. Producing plants with specific DNA enables farmers to produce more food, healthier food, and healthier plants. Plant geneticist are scientists that study genetics and typically work with genes to isolate and then develop certain plant traits. Such traits might prevent plant disease, be insect resistant, tolerate drought, or produce more food.
Extracted Cranberry DNA
The world population doubled over the last 50 years and global food production more than tripled. How did farmers keep up with the demand? Scientists accredit these main components: genetics, synthetic fertilizer, crop protection chemicals, and sustainable management practices. The fact is, without these scientific advancements much of the world would be hungry. Scientists predict that by the year 2050 the world population will reach 10 billion people which means farmers will have to produce even more food.
Plant breeders and geneticists are working on research to feed more people. Breeding plants that have a longer shelf life will equal less waste. Scientists are already editing the genome of bananas (modifying specific letters in their DNA) so that they produce less ethylene (the chemical that causes them to turn brown). How great will it be to have bananas that don’t quickly turn brown?
Geneticists are isolating traits from DNA that will allow a plant to produce more fruit/grain/vegetables in the same growing area used today. They are also searching for traits that will allow plants to produce in extreme weather. The list goes on.
The Cranberry DNA Extraction lab is a fun way to introduce students to the fact that DNA is in their food. After the students extract and see the DNA have a discussion why anyone would want to extract the DNA. Take a few minutes to talk about the various jobs needed to extract DNA. Some plant examples are lab technicians, geneticists, plant breeders and genetic engineers.
If DNA interests your students, you can list other ways industries use DNA extraction: forensics, paternity tests, ancestry tracking, medical tests, vaccines, hormones, and insulin.
