Human DNA Extraction Lab

In this disgusting lab, we asked the question, "How can DNA be separated from cheek cells in order to study it". We concluded that if we wanted to separate DNA from our rosy cheeks, we'd have to do a number of steps. Three steps, to be exact. Those steps would be homogenization, lysis, and precipitation. To achieve homogenization, we used Gatorade to break down the cell tissue. Because of Gatorade's polarity, we could use it. Gatorade has electrolytes, like sodium and potassium, that athletes sweat out during physical activity. We took a shot of Gatorade and swished it in out mouths, hoping to gain the cheek cells needed. After, we spitted it back into a cup. The next step was lysis. We added salt and detergent into the mix, to emulsify the proteins and lipids of the cell. Next, was the protease solution: pineapple juice (tempted to make a pen-pineapple-apple-pen joke). The pineapple juice is a catabolic protease, which is to break down the histones further. Mixing the solution showed no signs of disintegration or anything so we moved on to precipitation. To precipitate the solution, we added cold 99% isopropanol, nonpolar alcohol. After waiting for 5 minutes, the conclusion had floated to the top of the tub... yuck

We made a lot of errors in this lab. Because we had to determine to order of the given steps, we gotten the sequence wrong when our biology teacher, Mr. Orre told us the correct order. That could have affected the end product. While my table group peer, Marie, had a successful outcome, my DNA was not visible. If we had done the order of the step correctly. maybe I would be able to get the original outcome. Also, we did not mix our solution in between the steps of lysis and precipitation. That could have possibly impacted our results because the enzyme solution wouldn't be fully combined with our disgusting liquid. To fix these mistakes, we could have been given the steps of the lab to fulfill the successful outcome and have also not been careless with the instructions. 

Like stated before, this lab was to determine if we could extract DNA from our cheek cells to observe it. I can relate this lab to the second unit we learned. We learned about proteins and enzymes and their functions. That understanding helped me figure out the order of the steps. If I ever wanted to separate DNA from any of my other cells, I can use the same process as the cheek cells. I could also use my new knowledge of catabolic protease to tenderize meat (which I also learned watching the anime, Food Wars). It will soften the fibers and make it easier to eat and digest.