BIOLOGY: The appliance of science

SIXTH form biologists enjoyed the hands-on experience of carrying out exciting, cutting-edge experiments in real, fully equipped laboratories.

The students took part in several curriculum-linked practical workshops at the Life Science Centre in Newcastle, which has made headlines all over the world thanks to the ground-breaking research into regenerative medicine and genetics carried out there.

Students looked at they how they could use molecular biology techniques to identify genotypes, exploring modern biology techniques such as DNA extraction, micro pipetting, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), restriction enzyme digest, and gel electrophoresis.

Using their own DNA, they discovered and compared their version of a bitter taste receptor gene (their genotype) to their ability to taste the bitter compound (their phenotype).

Examining how different genetic variants evolve in populations, they also considered a case of convergent evolution.

The inspirational team at the unique science village, where researchers and clinicians work together to improve the lives of thousands, demonstrated the real-world applications of what students have been learning in their A-level classes.

The Life Science Centre opened in 1998, with the purpose of inspiring everyone in the North-East to explore and enjoy science and discover its relevance to their own lives.