Education
Integrate molecular biological technology into your science, biology & environmental classes
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DNAiTCH for Teachers
Science is extremely fast-moving. Twenty years ago, the first human genome cost 3 billion dollars to sequence, now if we wish, we can have our own DNA sequenced for about $1000, such as the pace of technology developments.
Teaching science is greatly enhanced if students can learn through experimentation. However, in teaching NCEA biology, genetics, environmental science, suitable molecular biological technologies have not reached the classroom.
DNAiTECH rectifies this, by providing schools affordable instruments and test kits for experimentation. The combination of examining important real-world environmental issues, empowering students through molecular technology, harnessing their own smartphones as the real-time qPCR readers is a drawcard for engaging students with science and technology.
The DNAiTECH aims to make it simple for teachers to incorporate molecular biology technology into their science teaching. The instrument and its reagent kits are simple to use and the experimental assay test results are visualized and plotted in real-time. Students use their smartphone to processes the data and after the experiment, it can be exported as processed or raw data formats. The DNAiTECH can also be taken and used on a field trip, it is lightweight (500g), hand-held, and can be powered by a small 12-volt battery.
Our first test is for common forms of Escherichia coli (non-pathogenic). This assay enables students to test water samples and check the level of E Coli relative to reference E. Coli DNA standards. Any E. Coli detected may have origins from animal-human or bird.
Another test is for cyanobacteria, Microcoleus autumnalis. This organism is increasingly becoming a problem in New Zealand rivers. Dogs that are attracted to these algal masses are killed by the toxins produced by this organism. Environmental factors that have contributed to rising in cyanobacteria include climate change, changes to the riparian margins, nitrate and fine sediment loads, and alteration in water flow.
New tests are coming to add to a portfolio of assays that are relevant to New Zealand environmental science. DNAiTECH has the X factor to really engage students, in science, technology, and environmental issues relevant to New Zealand and the wider world.
Register your interest in:
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DNAiTECH 2022
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REGIONAL TRAINING WORKSHOPS. Commencing 1st Semester 2022. Upskilling in molecular biology, a refresher course on molecular biology and hands-on use of the DNAiTECH and its kits.
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ASSAY KIT 1. Common Escherichia coli detection kit. E. Coli is present when water systems are contaminated by faecal matter, human or animal. Grazing of cattle on the margins of streams results in the rise in detectable E. Coli as does discharge from community’s sewage systems, stormwater etc.
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ASSAY KIT 2 Microcoleus autumnalis detection Kit. M. Autumnalis, a toxin-producing cyanobacterium is increasingly becoming a problem in New Zealand rivers. The organism produces the neurotoxin anatoxin which kills dogs when algal masses are consumed. Environmental factors which have contributed to rising in cyanobacteria include changes to the riparian margins, nitrate and fine sediment loads and alteration in water flow.
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New assays will be added, join our DNAiTECH News Group for notifications and information on events coming up.