In this activity, freshman college students learn biotechnology techniques while playing the role of a laboratory technician. They perform simulations of three diagnostic tests used to screen newborns for cystic fibrosis. By performing an ELISA, a PCR analysis, and a conductivity test, students learn how biotechnology techniques can be used to diagnose diseases. Students get excited when they realize they will be performing tests actually used in a real-life situation. This exercise is also appropriate for high school students.

Keywords:
Cystic fibrosis, biotechnology, technician, genetics, diagnosis
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2014
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