Fixing Genes, Fighting Disease: A Hands-On CRISPR Lab

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT:

This DMD CRISPR Simulation Kit introduces students to gene editing by modeling the correction of a Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)-like mutation in bacteria. Using CRISPR-based tools, students restore fluorescence to a mutated GFP gene, simulating therapeutic correction of the dystrophin gene.

The hands-on workflow includes DNA ligation, bacterial transformation, and protein extraction, culminating in SDS-PAGE analysis to visualize gene expression differences. Through this process, students learn how genetic mutations disrupt protein production and how CRISPR can reverse these effects. The experiment emphasizes real-world applications of CRISPR in treating human genetic disorders like DMD, providing both molecular biology skills and disease context. This immersive lab bridges fundamental biotechnology with advanced gene therapy concepts in an accessible and engaging way.

• Demonstrates real-world gene therapy concepts by simulating the correction of a disease-causing mutation using CRISPR, making abstract genetic principles tangible for students.
• Teaches core molecular biology techniques including ligation, transformation, plasmid-based gene expression, protein extraction, and gel electrophoresis.
• Connects biotechnology to human disease by modeling the restoration of dystrophin in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, linking lab skills to impactful medical applications.
• Reinforces understanding of CRISPR-Cas9 mechanisms, including guide RNA targeting, PAM site recognition, and DNA repair pathways (NHEJ vs. HDR).
• Promotes inquiry-based learning and data analysis, as students must interpret fluorescence results and protein gel patterns to assess gene correction success.