Testing GMOs Science Fair Projects

Manipulation

One of the common characteristics that all science fair projects is the act of manipulating variables. This manipulation can involve direct manipulation of an object or element in an experiment.

DNA Extraction	Student's Microscopes

Objectives/Goals

Extracting DNA is the first step in testing GMOs or genetically modified organisms. My experiment#s goal was to test the method of home-based DNA extraction by comparing the yield of DNA matter extracted through the use of different household detergents and protein-breaking enzymes. My hypothesis was that the best results would be made with the strongest detergent, which was X-14 cleaner with no enzymes added.

Methods/Materials

After blending ½ cup of peas, 1/8 tablespoon salt, and 1 cup of warm water for 15 seconds, I strained the cell material, and added 2 tablespoons of detergent. After 15 minutes, I added in a small amount of an enzyme, and 1 tablespoon alcohol. The controlled variables were salt, DNA source, water and alcohol. The manipulated variables were the detergents and enzymes used to purify DNA.

Results

Out of all the eight detergents used, Ultra Joy with surfactants Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Cocamide Mea, acting with an enzyme Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, brought out the most DNA.

Conclusions/Discussion

In order to speedily identify genetically modified organisms, there has to be a procedure which will extract DNA with accessible household materials, preserving the purity at the same time. In my experiment with household chemicals. I used eight different detergents, which were all picked for their different chemicals components (see report for analysis). I investigated which detergent brought out the largest quantity of DNA, and the purest yield of DNA

The best results came out to be with Ultra Joy dish detergent, because of the amount of surfactants present. Thus, my hypothesis was not proven. As I continue working with spectrometer, additional information on DNA purity will become available. 3rd party contributor