Today in Lab: In Search
of the Sickle Cell Gene
A Simple Mutation With
a Profound Impact
A Puzzling Observation…
A Possible Explanation…
Our Scenario and Goals in Lab:
A couple would like you to test them, and their
infant, for the sickle cell gene.
1. Use DNA electrophoresis to sort cut DNA
fragments from each person.
2. Find the DNA fragment that encodes for the
hemoglobin protein.
DNA Electrophoresis
The Electrophoresis Equipment
Loading a
Gel
The Results
Southern Blots
Safety Notes
1. Careful with the electrophoresis
equipment.
2. Dilute acid and base solution!
Exercise caution and keep
below eye level at all times.
Connecting Mendel to Lab:
Reminder: One of
the restriction
enzymes (molecular
scissors) we used
can cut the normal
hemoglobin gene,
but not the mutant
sickle version.
Sickle cell allele
normal