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 Your World Magazine Article GuideThe Biotechnology Institute publishes Your World: Biotechnology & You, the premier biotechnology magazine for grades 7 to 12, twice a year. Your World combines balanced, in-depth information on a single topic. Click on the issue title to view a PDF of the entire issue.
How Biotech Can Help Those with Rare Diseases 16.2.1 Progeria: Growing Old Too Fast This article discusses Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, a disease that speeds the aging process. The article explores the genetic mutations that cause the disease and the potential treatment options that are being researched. 16.2.2 Putting Treatments On Trial This article describes the step-by-step process of FDA-mandated clinical trials with an easy to understand reference to an imaginary product, ‘Nail-B-Gone’. The process begins with preclinical trials, then phase I, II, and III. The FDA then reviews and hopefully approves the drug and follows up with post market testing. 16.2.3 A Good Deal for Research This comic strip discusses diseases such as orphan and the cost of developing drugs to treat these types of diseases. 16.2.4 Career Profile: An Electric Approach An overview of Dr. Chang Lu, an assistant professor at Purdue University in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering. His research interest lies in cell fusion, specifically in the cost effective process of electrofusion.
16.1.1 Powering Up This article introduces the future of biobased fuels and the benefits of using them. 16.1.2 Biofuels 101 This article outlines the basics of biofuel from how it is made to how it is used. 16.1.3 Everyone's Talking Ethanol- Better Processes and Going 'Cellulosic' This article discusses the current process of creating ethanol from corn. Next, the article describes the process of cellulosic ethanol production. 16.1.4 Filling Up Your Tank-Without Fouling the Air This article concentrates on the impact of biofuels and petroleum on air pollution and global warming. 16.1.5 The Power of Mud This article discusses the power of mud. By way of Geobacter bacteria, mud can conduct a small amount of electricity. The article also includes a link to a student lab for creating biodiesel. 16.1.6 A Power-People Continuum This article explains the ever changing field of biofuels and careers associated with them. 16.1.7 Career Profile: Kathleen J. Danna, Ph.D. Dr. Danna earned her PhD in microbiology and collaborated with her adviser on applications of a restriction enzyme that could cut DNA. 16.1.8 Hands On Lab: Oozing Power This lab simulates the electricity generated from Geobacter bacteria discussed in "The Power of Mud" article. 16.1.9 Resources: Links to Learn More Resources on Biofuels, Fuel Efficiency and Renewable Energy Biomass.
A World of Change: Biotech-Derived Animals, Microbes and Plants 15.2.1 Changing For The Better This article deals with the topic of genetically modified organisms. 15.2.2 The Nitty Gritty of Genetic Modification This article gives a diagram of how genetic modification works and it also explains techniques for genetic modification. 15.2.3 And This Little Piggy Saved a Life! This comic strip discusses the use of genetically modified animals for organ use. 15.2.4 Going Forward Cautiously This article explains the cautious process of introducing biotech-derived products into the market. 15.2.5 Biodiversity & Biotech: Entwined for Life This article explains what biodiversity is and its biggest threat- humans. 15.2.6 Building Better Bugs This article describes transgenic insects and their impact. 15.2.7 Career Profile: Norman Borlaug, PhD This career profile focuses on the accomplishments of Dr. Norman Borlaug who won a Nobel Prize in 1970 for his dwarf wheat that saved India from continued famine. 15.2.8 Lab: Little Miss Muffet Biotech This lab involves making cheese from bioengineered enzymes. 15.2.9 Resources: Links to Learn More Resources. 15.1.1 Biotechnology Tackles Obesity This background information introduces obesity and its causes. 15.1.2 Getting Inside What Determines Weight This article talks about the genes that regulate how the body stores fat and the chemicals they produce that play a major role in the possible causes of obesity. 15.1.3 Calorie-Coated Diabetes This article explains the two types of diabetes and how biotechnology may be able to help. 15.1.4 The Roads to Controlling Obesity This article describes new genetically engineered variations of human factors that could help with obesity. 15.1.5 Made-To-Order Diets This article explains nutrigenomics and the role genes play in a person's health. Genetic makeup varies slightly between humans but causes some people to become obese and others to maintain a healthy weight. 15.1.6 How Low Should You Go? This article poses questions in regards to anti-obesity drugs. It questions if and when it is appropriate to treat obesity with a medication. 15.1.7 Career Profile: Learning from Fat Mice This career profile covers Dr. Jeffrey Friedman. He studies genes that are related to obesity. 15.1.8 Lab: Leptin to the Rescue? A system of genes, proteins and neurotransmitters controls how our bodies store fat. This system tells our brains not only when we should eat but when we should stop eating. One of the proteins responsible is leptin. This lab aims to demonstrate the differences between leptin and modified leptin and how it relates to obesity. 15.1.9 Resources Resources. Microbes: Parts and Potential 14.2.1 Microbes for the Future This article introduces microbes. It gives a brief history and a potential career choice in the field. 14.2.2 Getting Down to Essentials This article explains the basics of the genome and uses the bacterium Mycoplasma Genitalium as an example. Provides information on a viable career option. 14.2.3 Systems, Go This article explains what system biology is using the example of Halobacterium halobium. 14.2.4 Building The Tree of Life This article displays the "Tree of Life" as an organizational system used to show the relationship between newly discovered microorganisms. 14.2.5 Menace Mashers This comic strip discusses the symbiotic relationship between bacteria and its host. It talks about genomic analysis processes as well. 14.2.6 Considering All Things This article is composed of a number of case studies dealing with microbial data ownership, microbial terrorism, and safety concerns. 14.2.7 Career Profile: Christophe Schilling, The Business of Science This career profile covers Dr. Christophe Schilling who co-founded Geomatica, a computer modeling firm based in San Diego, California. 14.2.8 Hands On Lab: Name That Gene This student activity allows students to work with nucleotide sequences, found in real DNA, to learn about genetic mutations and associated diseases. 14.2.9 Resources Resources.
Emerging Diseases 14.1.1 Coming Soon To A Person Near You This article introduces immunology, vaccines, epidemics, and what the biotechnology industry is doing to help prevent the spread of disease. 14.1.2 Vaccines: Boosting Your Defenses This article deals with how the bodies immune system works and provides basic concepts and terminology. It also describes the different types of vaccines and their uses. 14.1.3 The Conundrum of Coronavirus The comic strip informs students about SARS. 14.1.4 Using Mathematics: It All Adds Up This article presents a case study of using mathematical models to predict the severity of an epidemic. 14.1.5 Superbugs Vs. Biotechnology This article presents a short historical background of penicillin and modern day antibiotics. It also discusses the recent instances of infections and diseases that are drug resistant. 14.1.6 The Ethics Angle This article introduces ethics- from research studies to coping with the outbreak of a contagious disease. 14.1.7 Career Profile: Meet Mr. Bug Spit This career profile covers Dr. Jose Ribeiro, an insect saliva specialist, created the genetic record of the substances in insect saliva. 14.1.8 Lab: Bacterial Growth Activity This lab teaches students about bacterial growth and resistance. 14.1.9 Glossary and Resources Glossary and Resources.
Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology 13.2.1 Industrial-Strength Biotechnology This article introduces numerous practical 'everyday' applications of biotechnology. 13.2.2 Home Sweet Biotech Biotechnology has a role in household products from blue jeans to artificial sweeteners. 13.2.3 A Biotech Toolbox This article describes what industrial biotechnology is, and more specifically what technology it uses. It includes numerous definitions and a section on the enzyme cellulase. 13.2.4 A Sweet Deal for the Environment This article describes the process of creating PLA (polylactide) from corn. This biomaterial can be used to create a variety of everyday household items and is biodegradable. 13.2.5 Clean Sweep This article investigates how environmental biotechnology and industrial biotechnology can positively impact the world we live in. 13.2.6 Mr. Catalyst-The Unsung Hero! Comic strip describing biocatalysts. 13.2.7 Career Profile: Craig Venter Dr. Craig Venter was President of Celera Genomics where he worked to sequence the human genome. He has a doctorate in physiology and pharmacology. Aside from genomics, Dr. Venter has an interest in slowing global warming and he would like to develop an eco-friendly fuel source. 13.2.8 Activity: Make Your Own 'Green' Plastic This lab allows to students to create their own 'green' plastic from gelatin and glycerol. 13.2.9 Glossary and Resources This includes glossary terms, web links and additional online resources for Teacher's Guide. Plant-Made Pharmaceuticals 13.1.1 Plants: Factories of the Future This article introduces PMPS, plant-made pharmaceuticals. 13.1.2 So You Want to Make a PMP This article explains how plant-made pharmaceuticals (PMP) are made. It includes a step-by-step process and defines key terminology. 13.1.3 Worth the Effort This article describes why plant-made pharmaceuticals are useful. It offers specific examples of how PMPs can be used. 13.1.4 Down on the 'Pharm' This article discusses safety issues with producing PMPs. 13.1.5 The Chosen Ones This article discusses what plants are used to create PMPs. It presents an equation used by pharmaceutical companies to determine how many acres of land are needed for a particular production quantity. 13.1.6 Potent Plants This article begins with a real life example of how PMPs are used. Troy Mashburn, who has cystic fibrosis, uses medications derived from genetically engineered corn. Additionally, N-glycans are defined and explained. 13.1.7 Career Profile: Ann-Marie Stomp This career profile covers Dr. Anne-Marie Stomp, botanist. She has worked in industry and academia and is currently a professor at North Carolina State University. Her work with duckweed led to the production of therapeutic proteins. 13.1.8 Activity: Microbial Bioassay This activity teaches students how to isolate a natural product and perform a microbial bioassay. 13.1.9 Glossary and Resources Glossary and Resources.
The Secret of How Life Works 12.2.1 The Case of the Sleuthing Scientists This article discusses the role genetics play in shaping a person. 12.2.2 Cooking Up Proteins The author relates a gene to a recipe; each contain instructions on how to create a specific end product. A further discussion describes how a cell makes protein. 12.2.3 Math Matters This article describes Mendel's early concept of genetics and the development of the Punnett Square. 12.2.4 Testing What We're Made Of This article defines genetic testing and the various types of genetic testing. Also, it provides the five reasons that these tests are performed. 12.2.5 A New Kind of Fingerprint This article presents a case study of using DNA fingerprinting to catch and exonerate criminals. 12.2.6 Pharmacogenetics: Tailor-Made Medicine This article describes pharmacogenetics. It also describes how this field can now alter drugs to work for more people. 12.2.7 Career Profile: Forensics at Work: DNA Analyst Jennifer L. Smith is a forensic DNA analyst for the Virginia Division of Forensic Science, she analyzes physical evidence from crimes and makes comparisons. She also provides expert testimony in court. 12.2.8 Activity: The Case of the Crown Jewels This activity gives students the opportunity to figure out who committed the crime by DNA fingerprinting. 12.2.9 DNA's Dark Lady This article describes the accomplishments of Rosalind Franklin in DNA structure. Learning about Drugs and Alcohol through Biotechnology 12.1.1 Your "Plastic" Teenage Brain This article discusses the plasticity of the brain as we age. It provides colorful illustrations, succinct "Big Ideas" and key terminology to help your students grasp the concepts. 12.1.2 The Reward Pathway: Why We All Scream for Ice Cream This article talks about why our brains are wired to love ice cream. It explains how neurons work and includes a colorful diagram with key terminology. 12.1.3 Cocaine Craving This article explains chemical addiction, it describes how cocaine "hijacks" our normal brain functions in vivid details. The article provides a detailed diagram of dopamine synapses, key terminology, pertinent facts related to drug addiction and a viable career option. 12.1.4 Alcohol: Rats, Genes, and Teens This article talks about how animals are helping us learn how humans respond to alcohol. It describes research on addictions and what conclusions have been made from studying addiction. It provides a vivid illustration, key terminology and discussion questions to engage students. 12.1.5 Unhooking From Smoking This article reveals why nicotine is the most heavily used drug in the world, it explains why it's addictive and how it affects your neurotransmitters. It provides discussion questions, an activity link, related facts and key terminology for students. 12.1.6 Ecstasy (and Agony) This article talks about the drug Ecstasy and the chemical, MDMA, that it contains and the harmful side effects it causes. It provides links to additional resources, a career option, and other related facts for students. 12.1.7 Career Profile: Dr. Huda Akil: What's The Point of Pain? This career profile outlines Dr. Huda Akil and her research on the brain producing morphine-like chemical that blocks out pain. 12.1.8 Something You Can Try: The Tell-Tale Heart This activity allows students to see first-hand the effect of chemical stimulants and depressants on the heart rate of Daphnia. Microbes Coming into Focus 11.2.1 Microbes: Yielding Their Secrets This article uses colorful diagram with key terms to introduce microbial genomics to students. 11.2.2 Revealing the Microbial World: Inside Gene Discovery This article describes gene transfer and presents a circular sequence map of Mycoplasma Genitalium through a colorful diagram that's easy to understand along with key terms and a career option to consider for students. 11.2.3 Biofilms and Quorum Sensing: The Gang's All Here Microbes lead complex social lives. This article describes biofilms and defines keywords in colorful detail and visuals. It gives a diagram of biofilms in the ear. 11.2.4 Anthrax: The Sleeper Cell In a colorful diagram, this article describes how anthrax works- from diagnosis to treatment. It provides key terms, career information and discussion question for students. 11.2.5 Bioremediation: Microbes That Like it Hot! Microbes are Earth's oldest residents and this article explains how microbes can offer help in cleaning up nuclear waste, greenhouse gases and other emissions. 11.2.6 Ecosystem in the Abyss: Black Smokers and "Umbs" This article talks about the life at the depths of the ocean, it explains what type of microbes resides in the abyss. 11.2.7 Career Profile: Karen Nelson, Genome Researcher Dr. Karen Nelson, Assistant Investigator for the Institute for Genomic Research, holds a PhD in microbial physiology. She conducts research to sequence the genome of microbial life that may have implications in industry and bioremediation. 11.2.8 Something You Can Try: Growing Biofilms This activity will provide students with first-hand experiences on how to grow biofilms and then examine them under the microscope. 11.2.9 Resources: Microbial Resources.
Fighting Cancer with Biotechnology 11.1.1 A Life Threatening Disease This article talks about what cancer is by providing an example of a young teenager's, Anna, personal experience with Hodgkin's lymphoma and her struggles. This article depicts a personal battle with this disease that is quite compelling. 11.1.2 The Making of a Cancer This article continues to recount Anna's story as she now wants to learn what went wrong in her body. The article describes cancer, it includes a colorful diagram, and key terminology to aid students in understanding this disease. 11.1.3 A Cancer Turns Deadly Ana, who's battling Hodgkin's lymphoma, explores the genetics of cancer and learns about how cells normally function. This article goes into further detail to describe cancer more fully. It provides a beautiful diagram that will captivate student interests along with key terminology, a discussion question and a viable career option. 11.1.4 Sun and Smokes Anna's learns that her own cancer was probably the result of several genetic mutations, but now she worries about her friends who take risks with cancer. This article gives two examples of actions that cause cancer: unprotected sun exposure and smoking. 11.1.5 Colon Cancer's Jump Start Ana continues her quest to gather knowledge to help her better understand cancer. In her pursuit for information, she meets a woman with colon cancer. This article describes colon cancer in detail, it provides a vivid diagram, defines key words and offers questions for further discussion. 11.1.6 Leukemia and a Magic Bullet Ana meets a young boy with a deadly form of leukemia. This article discusses drugs designed to fight cancer and how they work. The article provides a color diagram, key terminology and a career option for students. 11.1.7 Career Profile: Sir David Lane and the p53 Gene This profile follows the career of Sir David Lane. He is trained in microbiology and immunology and discovered the p53 gene which is associated with cancer cells. 11.1.8 Something You Can Try: Detecting a Cancer Risk Factor Biotechnology helps to detect genetic mutations that can lead to cancer and predict the probability of getting some inherited forms of cancers. This activity allows students to see this in action, by using electrophoresis to determine the probability of inheriting the BRCA-1 mutation that can lead to breast cancer in men and women. 11.1.9 Resources: Cancer Resources.
Cracking the Code of Life 10.2.1 Three Books In One This article talks about chromosomes as "DNA continents" and looks at what can be learned from studying the human genome. It provides a diagram and description of chromosomes. 10.2.2 Why Tay-Sachs Disease? This article talks about Tay-Sachs disease and discusses the underlying genetic mutations that cause this disease. The article provides colorful illustrations and key concepts to enhance student knowledge. 10.2.3 The Breast Cancer Gene: Fate or Risk? This article describes the link between genes and cancer. It also covers genetic testing. 10.2.4 Of Mice and Memory This article explains the possible genetic link between learning and memory. 10.2.5 Iceland: 1,100+ Years of Genetic Solitude This article provide details of the genetic study of Iceland. 10.2.6 Career Profile: Bruce T. Lahn The career profile outlines Dr. Bruce Lahn, investigator at Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Professor of Human Genetics at the University of Chicago. His research focus is on the Y chromosome. 10.2.7 Something You Can Try: Crack This Code! This activity teaches students about genetic sequencing and allows students to create their own code. 10.2.8 Resources Resources. Genetically Modified Food Crops 10.1.1 The Gene Revolution in Food This article explains the Green Revolution and subsequent development of genetically modified crops. 10.1.2 Creating Better Plants This article discusses genetic engineering of plants. It defines pertinent vocabulary and examples of these types of crops. 10.1.3 Weed Warriors: Herbicide Tolerant Plants This article describes herbicides. It explains the positive and negative points of using such chemicals. 10.1.4 Monarch Butterfly Effect This article provides an example of genetically modified crops, insect resistant BT corn. 10.1.5 Golden Rice This article deals with how biotechnology helps improve nutrition and its effort to provide the world's population more nutritious foods. It focuses on genetically modified food, with an example of "golden rice". 10.1.6 Potato Power This article explains the multitude of uses for potatoes- including use as a vaccine. 10.1.7 Career Profile: Florence Muringi Wambugu This article outlines agricultural researcher, Dr. Florence Muringi Wambugu, Director for the African Center of the International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications (ISAAA). The center uses agricultural technology to help Africa. 10.1.8 Something You Can Try: Growing Soybeans and Researching Monarchs This activity teaches students how to grow their own soybeans and how to design a Monarch/Bt corn study. Biotechnology and AIDS 9.2.1 AIDS: A Terrible Pandemic This article introduces the topics covered in this issue of the magazine and provides a brief overview of the background and pertinent facts related to the AIDS epidemic worldwide. 9.2.2 Discovering the Cause of AIDS This article provides greater detail on AIDS and includes a diagram, chart and definition of key words for students. 9.2.3 How HIV Kills This article describes the life cycle of the HIV virus, how HIV infects cells and leads to AIDS. A clear easy to understand diagram is used, discussion questions and key terminology are included. 9.2.4 The Combination Drug Cocktail This article describes drugs used to manage HIV such as Reverse Transcriptase, "Nukes" and Protease Inhibitors. 9.2.5 New Approaches to Drugs This article goes into greater depth about how HIV enters a host cell. It also discusses drug resistance. 9.2.6 A Vaccine to Save the World? This article describes the development of AIDS medications. Research is based on a model of Smallpox. 9.2.7 Career Profile: Debbi Birx, M.D. AIDS Researcher Dr. Debbi Birx, a medical doctor who specialized in immunology, is the director of the US Military HIV Research Program to develop a vaccine for HIV. 9.2.8 Something You Can Try: Simulating the Spread of AIDS This activity allows students to see how AIDS is spread in a safe classroom setting.
Computers and Biotechnology 9.1.1 Introductions: A Graphic View of You! This article serves as a primer to the topic of the magazine issue: computers. 9.1.2 Hunting For Genes This article compares mining to gene discovery. It defines key terms and introduces The Human Genome Project. 9.1.3 SNPs and Chips This article talks about SNP's, DNA chips, genetic testing, and presents a case study on the Ice Maiden that describes how this technology has been used. 9.1.4 Every Picture Tells a Story This article explains how computers can aid science by creating computer generated atomic structures that are not visible with the naked eye or a microscope. 9.1.5 Viewing Molecules and Proteins This article provides a number of visualizations of molecular shapes, such as the structure of caffeine and a type of protein. It explains how computers can aid in science by visualizing atomic structure. 9.1.6 Searching for Drugs This article explains how computers use one method called, the Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR), in the development of new drugs. 9.1.7 Career Profile: John McAllister: Computer Modeler Dr. John McAllister has developed high tech computer programs which are the basis for molecular graphic software programs used today by the biotechnology industry. 9.1.8 Activity: Molecular Puzzles This activity will allow students to use what they learned. They are to recreate caffeine models and find a complement to the DNA stand presented. Genes and Medicine 8.1.1 Genes and Medicine This article explains the genome and the new field of treating disease called, gene therapy. It defines related key terminology. 8.1.2 Hemophilia and the Last Czar's Son This article talks about what Hemophilia is and how it affected the family of the Russian Czar. 8.1.3 A Healing Gene This article explains how vectors, gene delivery, work to treat people with genetic disorders. 8.1.4 The Challenges to Gene Therapy This article details the challenges in choosing a disease to treat using gene therapy. 8.1.5 Naked DNA Therapy for Blood Vessels This article explains what DNA therapy is and talks about plasmids, and the process of research and clinical trials. 8.1.6 Cancer and the Guardian of the Genome This article explains the process of research on cancer treatments and discusses the two types of genes that control cell division. 8.1.7 Could We? Should We? This article discusses the safety, ethics and feasibility of somatic cell therapy, germline therapy and gene therapy. 8.1.8 References Resources.
Marine Biotechnology 7.2.1 Exploring the Diversity in the Sea This article talks about the least explored yet greatest untapped resource, sea life. It presents colorful photos of Plankton, a Diatom, and a Blue Slug. 7.2.2 The Biotechnology Porthole This article introduces the groups of organisms found in the sea that are currently being studied for their potential scientific and medical value. It provides explanation of PCR, fermentation, genes, DNA, and antibodies. 7.2.3 The Ocean Superstore This article showcases the many present and future products created from the ocean- from pharmaceuticals to cleaning supplies. A colorful step-by-step diagram is provided and related key terms are defined. 7.2.4 Zippy Zebras This article talks about a study conducted on the Zebrafish that will hopefully unlock the secret to why the striped bass will not reproduce in captivity. 7.2.5 Fertile Turtles This article deals with sea turtle and terrapin reproduction. The sex of a terrapin is temperature dependent, there is also discussion of global warming and its impact on turtles. 7.2.6 Life at the Extremes This article describes what is found at the floor of the sea. It provides definitions for Archaea, Extremophiles, and many other important organisms under the sea. 7.2.7 Career Profile: Sunny Jiang: Predicting Cholera Outbreaks Dr. Sunny Jiang, a research scientist, studies the relationship between Cholera outbreaks and global weather patterns. 7.2.8 Activity: Taking it to Extremes! This activity will allow students to see how a "normophile", in this case a chicken egg, reacts to extreme environments. 7.2.9 Resources Resources.
Tissue Engineering 7.1.1 Tissues Under Repair: From Ancient Greece to Tomorrow This article introduces students to how certain organs can repair themselves and it describes tissue engineering. 7.1.2 Tissue Construction Site Your organs are comprised of several tissues. This article explains what tissue is made of and defines keywords. 7.1.3 Differentiation: How Does a Cell Know What Cell to Be? This article talks about how cells differentiate. It also introduces stem cells. 7.1.4 New Products: Skin, Bones, and More This article defines and gives the function of bone, skin, and cartilage. 7.1.5 Under Design: Complex Organs This article describes the heart, liver and muscles. 7.1.6 Parallel Technologies This article explains practical application of tissue engineering. 7.1.7 Career Profile: Doris Taylor: Assistant Research Professor Dr. Doris Taylor conducts research on acute myocardial infarctions. 7.1.8 Activity: "Reverse" Tissue Engineering This activity demonstrates the effect of acid on chicken bones. 7.1.9 References Resources.
New Diagnostics 6.2.1 Medical Detectives This article describes how medical professionals diagnose patients. 6.2.2 Immunodiagnostics: Locks and Keys This article focuses on the body's immune system and describes how antibodies and antigens bind in a lock and key fashion. 6.2.3 Genetic Diagnostics: Interlocking DNA Molecules This article takes you inside the inside of a cell, to its nucleus and describes what DNA is composed of and defines other key words. 6.2.4 The Strep Throat Control This article focuses on a sore throat and provides a step-by-step illustration of how the Rapid Strep test works. 6.2.5 Safeguarding the Blood Bank This article discusses the safety of blood banks and gives an example of a blood recipient who got AIDS from the transfusion. 6.2.6 Detecting Disease by its DNA This article talks about predisposing cancer genes and provides an example of colon cancer. It also includes a comic strip. 6.2.7 Career Profile: Ann Kirsch, Senior Medical Technologist Ann Kirsch is a medical technologist who tests blood to make sure it is disease free and usable for transfusions. 6.2.8 Activity: The Antibody Sandwich Test This activity allows students to replicate an immunodiagnostic test using eggs
Investigating the Brain 6.1.1 Investigating the Brain This article explains how the brain works and presents a case study of someone who had brain surgery. It provides a color-coded diagram of the brain that shows the basic arrangement of its major parts. 6.1.2 Neurons: An Electrifying Kind of Cell This article focuses on the brain and provides an explanation for how neuron transmission works. It includes a colorful diagram and key terminology for students. 6.1.3 Synapses: Getting the Message Across This article focuses on the brain and provides a vivid illustration of how signals are transmitted between neurons. 6.1.4 Drugs and the Brain: Miracle or Menace This article presents two case studies, one good and one bad, that explains the impact of drugs on brain function. 6.1.5 Career Profile: Sandra Moon: Neuroanatomist Dr. Sandra Moon, a neuroanatomist, works on drugs for depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and many other learning and memory impairments. 6.1.6 Alzheimer's Disease: Fading Memories This article explains what Alzheimer's Disease is and the current medications for managing it. 6.1.7 Wanted: Medical Breakthroughs This article focuses on the brain and describes cases where medical technology can be used to save people with otherwise debilitating injuries such as brain or spinal cord injuries. 6.1.8 Mapping the Mind This article explains who Phineas Gage is and the trauma that he sustained to his frontal lobe, which sharply altered his personality. It goes on to explain current day brain imaging technology. 6.1.9 Experiment: Getting the Point This experiment allows students to perform tests to determine skin sensitivity. 6.1.10 Ethical Issues in Neuroscience This article presents two case studies involving ethics. It also presents students with the question of whether animals should be used in research.
Exploring the Human Genome 5.2.1 Odyssey Into Ourselves This article discusses The Human Genome Project. 5.2.2 The Human Genome Project This article further explores The Human Genome Project. Additionally, this article discusses ethics. 5.2.3 The Structure and Function of DNA This article deals with the study of DNA, its structure and function. It defines genomics terminology and includes a diagram of the composition of DNA. 5.2.4 Genes, Proteins, and Genetic Disease This article teaches students the components of DNA and explains what genes are. 5.2.5 Mapping the Genome This article explains genetic mapping. It provides definitions and a diagram explaining the process in simple terms. 5.2.6 The Accidental Discovery of PCR This article talks about techniques in working with DNA and the advances in genetic research that have resulted. It describes the history of the Polymerase Chain Reaction. Additionally, there is a list of potential career fields involved in The Human Genome Project. 5.2.7 Informatics and Automation This article further explores The Human Genome Project. It explains how computer programs are used in the research and provides more career opportunities in these fields. 5.2.8 Huntington's Disease: An Unhappy Destiny This article talks about Huntington's Disease and takes a looks at how this gene is inherited. 5.2.9 Activity: Finding a Marker for Huntington's Disease This is a student activity on Huntington's Disease. It begins with creating a family tree to see how traits are carried. 5.2.10 Predisposing Genes for Colon Cancer This article presents a case study on colon cancer. It also outlines ethical issues and a student role playing activity. 5.2.11 The Obesity Gene This article explains the linkage of genes and obesity. It defines key terms such as 'leptin'. 5.2.12 Career Profile: Lisa Stubbs Dr. Lisa Stubbs is a molecular geneticist. She conducts research on mouse genes. 5.2.13 Career Profile: Brian Silven Brian Silven, a DNA Laboratory Coordinator, performs genetic testing on humans. 5.2.14 References: Human Genome Resources.
Transgenic Animals 5.1.1 From Wolf to Poodle- Taming and Changing Animals This article explains what transgenic technology means and its present impact on plants and animals. 5.1.2 The Science of Breeding This article provides historical reference to natural selection vs. today's selective breeding techniques. It offers students a clear and easy to understand diagram, key terminology and potential career paths within these disciplines. 5.1.3 Developing a Transgenic Animal This article discusses the process of creating a transgenic animal step-by-step. There is an easy to understand, color coded diagram that aids in understanding the concept, key terminology, and discussion questions. 5.1.4 Healthier Foods, Healthier Animals This article talks about the benefits of genetically altered animals, it gives examples such as human milk from a cow, better cheese, low fat meat, and "super fish". A discussion question is provided to engage students. 5.1.5 Meanwhile, Back on the Pharm: Animals Making Medicine This article describes the medicinal purposes of protein from animals, such as sheep, cows, and goats. Additionally, the article discusses making a blood substitute developed from pigs and the possibility of transplanting organs from transgenic pigs. The article offers discussion questions and lots of colorful diagrams and charts that make it interesting and easy for students to follow. 5.1.6 Animal Models of Human Disease This article talks about animal models for research on human diseases, an example is presented with transgenic mice and the study of atherosclerosis. The article provides key terminology and discussion questions for students. 5.1.7 Our Long Relationship with Animals This article explores the ever changing relationship between animals and humans. It has evolved from animals as a food source, to companionship, to a subject for research studies. 5.1.8 Class Project: Predicting Traits This project allows students to discover and learn more about dominant and recessive traits. 5.1.9 Career Profile: Vernon G. Pursel, Animal Physiologist This article outlines the career of Dr. Vernon Pursel. He is an animal physiologist with a PhD in dairy husbandry. His work with pigs has enabled farmers worldwide to improve their herds. His current research with pigs looks to improve the quality of meat for human consumption and do so at a lower cost with fewer wastes.
4.2.1 Gene Therapy Opens New Horizons in Treating Disease This article describes gene therapy. It also details two genetic diseases: Lou Gehrig's (ALS) and Huntington's disease. 4.2.2 A Medical Revolution Begins This article discusses the benefits of gene therapy in severe combined immunodeficiency (SCIB). It provides a historical context for this rare genetic disease. Article provides diagrams, key terms and discussion questions. 4.2.3 Getting New Genes into Cells This article explains and provides an easy to understand illustration showing in vivo and ex vivo gene therapy. Additionally, it describes potential careers in the field of gene therapy and offers a question for further discussion. 4.2.4 Vectors Vehicles for Transferring Genes This article talks about the mechanism for delivering a healthy gene to a cell that needs it. It describes vectors as the mode for transferring genes: non-viral vectors, adenovirus, and retrovirus. Provides color images and a career option for students to consider. 4.2.5 Career Profile: Mariann Grossman: A Pioneer in Gene Therapy This career profile outlines Mariann Grossman. Her research on gene therapy has led to a treatment for Familial Hypercholesterolemia. 4.2.6 The First Success in Gene Therapy: Helping a Woman Fight Deadly High Cholesterol This article describes the first successful treatment by gene therapy. The treatment was developed for familial hypercholesterolemia. 4.2.7 Gene Therapy for Cancer and Infectious Diseases This article describes gene therapy for diseases such as cancer and AIDS. 4.2.8 Should We Change Our Genes? This article describes the ethics behind gene therapy. It discusses the potential of using gene therapy for cosmetic reasons, not out of medical necessity. 4.2.9 Class Discussion: Ethical Problems in Genetics This article presents several case studies pertaining to ethical issues centered around the topic of genetics and gene therapy. Environmental Biotechnology 4.1.1 The Natural Classroom This article is focused on the environment and introduces bioremediation and biosensors. 4.1.2 Preserving Biodiversity: A New Economic Resource for Costa Rica This article describes the efforts to protect the rainforests of Costa Rica through marketing. 4.1.3 Nature's Guide to New Drugs This article talks about medicine derived from plants. It focuses on the anti-cancer drug taxol, which comes from Pacific Yew Trees. 4.1.4 Bioremediation: Bacteria's Top Job This article describes how toxin-degrading bacterias aid in the cleanup of toxic waste. 4.1.5 Biosensors: Using Biotechnology to Find and Fight Pollution This article describes how biosensors measure the amount of contaminants in the environment. 4.1.6 BIOTECH Musical Chairs This activity simulates how a solid-state immunosensor measures Benzene concentrations. 4.1.7 Environmental Regulation This article describes the role of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Toxic Substance Control Act. 4.1.8 Career Profile: Guiseppi-Elie: An Entrepreneur in Biotechnology Dr. Guiseppi-Elie combined his knowledge in science and electronics to start his own company and then created a solid state biosensor. 4.1.9 Experiment: Finding Starch-Eating Organisms in Soil This activity allows students to use a bunsen burner and Iodine to see how enzymes work.
3.2.1 Vaccines: Shortcut To Immunity This article introduces vaccinations and their benefits to society. 3.2.2 Defending the Body Against Foreign Invaders This article explains how the immune system works and defines diagrams and key terminology for students. 3.2.3 Imitating the Immune Response This article discusses a number of ways that vaccines are developed. 3.2.4 Early Vaccines: Smallpox and Polio This article discusses from a historical perspective ways that vaccines for smallpox and polio were developed. 3.2.5 The Next Wave: Recombinant Vaccines This article talks about bioengineered vaccines. It also discusses other diseases that will be dealt with in this manner. 3.2.6 Into the Future: Working on an AIDS Vaccine This article describes HIV and AIDS. It also discusses research on a vaccine for AIDS. 3.2.7 The Wistar Institute: A Leader in Biomedical Research This article presents The Wistar Institute on the University of Pennsylvania's campus. It highlights some of its successful accomplishments in various areas of vaccinations, cancer and AIDS. The center has done groundbreaking research there since 1894. 3.2.8 Career Profile: Dorothee Herlyn: Researching a Cancer Vaccine at the Wistar Institute Dorothee Herlyn's field is immunology and she works in cancer vaccine research. 3.2.9 "Anti-idiotype Antibody": Big Words to Fight a Big Disease- Cancer This article describes the role of anti-idiotype antibodies in fighting cancer. 3.2.10 Experiment: Fighting Diseases by Matching Antibodies to Antigens This experiment teaches students about the binding of antigens and antibodies.
Industrial Biotechnology 3.1.1 Industrial Biotechnology: From Laboratories to Factories This article introduces genetic engineering. 3.1.2 Fermentation: Putting Microorganisms to Work This article explains the process of fermentation and gives a recipe for industrial ethanol. 3.1.3 Scaling Up This article describes the factors necessary to produce industrial ethanol. 3.1.4 Penicillin: Bacteria Killer that Saves Lives This article talks about the history of penicillin and how it came into use. 3.1.5 Dr. Biotech Talks about Careers in Bioengineering This article provides a fictitious interview with "Dr. Biotech" about career opportunities in bioengineering. 3.1.6 New Plastics Join the Family of Polymers This article describes new plastics created by fermentation and yogurt bacteria. 3.1.7 Say Cheese! This article explains the process of making cheese and how biotechnology has stepped in and made the process more efficient. 3.1.8 Let It Snow! This article describes how fake snow is created. 3.1.9 Career Profile: Dr. Kodzo Gbewonyo: Biochemical Engineer in Pharmaceuticals Dr. Gbewonyo is a biochemical engineer. He works for a pharmaceutical company creating drugs by fermentation. 3.1.10 Experiment: Process of Fermentation This experiment enables students to learn first-hand about fermentation using yeast. Plant Biotechnology 2.2.1 Agricultural Biotechnology from Caves To Laboratories This article introduces biotechnology and its role and future impacts in agriculture. 2.2.2 The Seed Knows This article provides background information on what takes place inside a cell and reveals how a seed becomes a plant through transcription and translation. 2.2.3 From Plant Breeding to Plant Engineering This article talks about cross breeding and provides a vivid diagram of how DNA is combined. 2.2.4 Bionic Crops This article describes genetically enhanced crops ranging from "supertomatoes", nutritionally enhanced corn, and bug-free cotton. 2.2.5 Controlling Those Pesky Pests This article describes B-T pesticide, which is an insecticidal crystal protein. It only destroys problem bugs but does not harm beneficial bugs and is biodegradable. 2.2.6 Feed The World...Can Science Help? This article explains the food shortages in developing countries. Biotechnology can help increase the food supply through genetically engineered crops that can withstand extreme environments. 2.2.7 Experiment: How Genes Make Proteins This experiment allows students to learn and explore transcription and translation to create proteins. 2.2.8 Career Profile: Meet Dr. Cynthia Gawron-Burke This career profile outlines Dr. Cynthia Gawron-Burke, director of research on B-T bioinsecticides at Ecogen.
Molecular Diagnostics 2.1.1 You're The Only You This article introduces the topic of genetics and explains that DNA creates individuality. 2.1.2 Genetic Detectives: Solving Crimes with Science This article explains how DNA can be used to solve a crime. 2.1.3 DNA and the FBI 2.1.4 Tiny Clues Uncover a Remarkable Universe: Extracting DNA and Preparing it for Profiling This article uses a step-by-step color diagram to explain the process of extracting DNA. 2.1.5 An Experiment: A Model of DNA This activity allows students to create a DNA model. 2.1.6 Cystic Fibrosis: We Found the Gene, We Will Find the Cure Now that the genes responsible for Cystic Fibrosis have been found, research has begun on a cure. 2.1.7 A Young Girl with Cystic Fibrosis This article presents a case study of a young girl with Cystic Fibrosis and how her family copes with her disease. 2.1.8 Career Profile: Denise Lafayette: Gene Counselor Denise Lafayette is a Genetic Counselor and counsels pregnant women concerning genetically inherited diseases. Health Care, Agriculture, Environment 1.1.1 What is Biotechnology? This article provides students with a working definition of what biotechnology is and gives a brief overview of its history and future impacts. 1.1.2 Biotechnology in Action - Health: Human Growth Hormone This article focuses on the medical condition called dwarfism and the hormone that regulates height in humans. Definitions to key terms are provided for students. 1.1.3 An Experiment - The Onion Lab This experiment allows students to isolate DNA and conduct a series of tests to determine if it is, in fact, DNA. 1.1.4 Biotechnology Under Development - Animals: Stopping Rabies Among Wild Animals This article focuses on the symptoms of Rabies, current treatment, and a possible vaccine to prevent Rabies. 1.1.5 Biotechnology on the Horizon- Environment Cleaning Up Chemical Waste This article describes how biotechnology can aid in cleaning up the environment. For example, microbes can be used in cleaning up an oil spill. Key words are highlighted and defined.
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