A question of taste: Using PCR to investigate human evolution - Darwin-inspired practical workshops from the Wellcome Trust Survival Rivals project

This workshop is tailored to A-level specifications including How Science Works. Students investigate their own DNA using techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, restriction digestion and gel electrophoresis. They analyse their results, use bioinformatics to make genetic comparisons, and investigate evolution of the taste gene between humans and chimpanzees, understanding how their own DNA has evolved through time. Nowgen is a not-for-profit organisation that has delivered workshops to over 3,200 students since 2006. Feedback includes: “An opportunity to do practical techniques that they wouldn’t be able to do in college. I loved it!” “ Our students were stretched beyond the specification, learning about bioinformatics and the human genome.” “Students could extend their thinking in confidence.. It was brilliant.”

Keywords: DNA, genetics, PCR, gel electrophoresis, evolution, Darwin, restriction, digest, chimpanzee, human, bursary, dialogue, discussion, convergent evolution, taste, PTC, bitter, Brussels sprout, bioinformatics, polymerase chain reaction, genetic comparison, practical, workshop, question of taste, Nowgen, Manchester, A-level, Biology, Survival Rivals, Wellcome Trust, gene, mutation, taste test,

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