This visit to Harry Perkins opened their eyes to how science can be used to aim at life, pursuing research in an effort to reveal new ways to treat a range of genetic diseases.
On Tuesday 18 June, the Year 12 Human Biology class headed to Harry Perkins medical research institute in Nedlands. While there, they learnt about the incredible research conducted at Harry Perkins, opening their eyes to how science can be used to aim at life, pursuing research in an effort to reveal new and innovative ways to treat or cure a range of genetic diseases.
Our Year 12s practiced the process of Polymerase Chain Reaction (a method for replicating DNA exponentially in a small space of time). Their first practice was with paper, sticky tape, and a special Taq hat (you can ask them!) and let me tell you, some of these Year 12s are pretty handy with the art and craft!
Then, they moved into the lab where they used PCR to replicate a sample of DNA ready for sequencing to identify a single point mutation in a gene that results in a rare genetic disorder.
All the Chemistry Titration students were amazed at the accuracy of a micro-pippette, many “Woahs!” were heard. They also used gel electrophoresis to check that their PCR worked and went on a tour of the research facility.
Maggie and Vania will say that their gel was the best, but Miriam and Alex were definitely a close second! Oh, and Elizabeth definitely did not break the whiteboard on Level 6.
