For example, look up how divalent cations affect DNA uptake. Scientists adapted procedures for working with other types of DNA in developing the transformation method described in Micklos and Freyer. Compare and contrast the method in Micklos and Freyer with procedures described in other professional manuals. Do students consider how to compensate for differing cell concentrations in each colony. Several inexpensive proteases are available.
Teams can each analyze one enzyme.
Parameters to study include temperature, type of substrate, substrate and enzyme concentrations, pH, detergent resistance. Students graph results and can also figure out the specific activity of the enzyme by conducting a protein assay. B. Heat resistance of Bakers' Yeast. Teams use fresh proofed yeast or stationary or log phase cultures, and make water baths for short term incubations at temperatures from 0C to boiling. Methyl blue dye metabolism distinguishes live and dead cells.