Cohen discovered a method for introducing new plasmids into the bacteria. Working together, Boyer and Cohen discovered that they could modify plasmid DNA using restriction enzymes, and then introduce the plasmids into bacterial cells. As the bacteria reproduce, so does the recombinant plasmid. The result is a bacterial colony in which a modified plasmid containing a desired gene has been cloned. Scissors Tape Pencil Paper Preparation Duplicate the handouts to distribute to students.
Instructions Divide the students into groups of four.
Explain that two of each group will represent Science Team A, while the other half of each group will represent Science Team B. Choose one student in each team to be the Lab Technician, and one to be the Researcher. Distribute part A of Handouts 3 and 4 to the A subgroup, and part B of Handouts 3 and 4 to the B subgroup. Explain that the Lab Technician in each group should prepare the DNA or plasmid strips as described on the handouts. Next, have the Lab Technicians compare the sequence of base pairs on an enzyme card with the sequences of the DNA or plasmid base pairs. If they find the same sequence of pairs on both the enzyme card and the DNA or plasmid strip, they should mark the location on the strip with a pencil, and write the enzyme name in the marked area.