The Wonders of DNA

[thebridget]

Each student is required to post at least one paragraph, minimum of 5
sentences, stating:
1. Something new you learned
2. What kinds of benefits does this knowledge have in the "real
world"?
3. Give an example of a question someone may have asked that could
have lead to research in this field.

For number 2 you cannot repeat something that has already been
mentioned! This is to encourage you to not procrastinate this
assignment and to make sure that you come up with your own ideas
rather than copying someone else's.

[thebridget]

Example of what a student might post:


I have heard about Stem Cell Research before and I always thought stem
cells came from "test tube babies". Now I know that stem cells come
from babies that are still developing, umbilical cords, and even
within adults! I also learned that stem cells are undefined cells,
just waiting to be told what they will become. This knowledge helps
us in the real world through stem cell research. Stem Cell research
has made it possible to grow new, healthy tissue through
transplants.

Question: How does the body make different organs?

[thebridget]

Student Example 2:

I've heard of genes and DNA before and that they make us who we are,
but I never knew how. Now I know that DNA is made up of codes that
tells our body what to make and which proteins it should use to make
different things. Knowing how DNA works has helped scientists
discover why some people have certain illnesses. The websites talked
about "Sickle Cell Anemia" and how it is caused by a genetic
"mutation". Someone may have asked, "Why do only some people suffer
with sickle cell anemia while others do not?" which could have led to
DNA research.

Extra Credit Question:
I thought mutations came from radioactive goo or something like that.
How do people get mutations and why?