Unraveling DNA

This innovative manual introduces students to all of the basic techniques of modern molecular biology using an integrated series of laboratory exercises that involve the cloning and analysis of the bioluminescence (lux) genes from the marine bacterium Vibrio fischeri. By organizing the exercises as part of a major cloning project, students get the sense of performing a complete cloning project, rather than just learning a collection of procedures. The manual is divided into discrete units with each demonstrating one or more aspects of the cloning project. Collectively, the entire series of exercises requires approximately three quarters to one full semester to complete with two laboratory periods per week. Smaller portions of the manuals are easily adapted to fewer lab periods.