DNA to Protein Project

DNA to Protein assignment:

This short project will cover three things: the basic structure of DNA, an explanation of replication (how and when it is copied), and an explanation of how it is used to code for proteins (transcription and translation). 

Part 1: DNA Structure.  You must show the following:

1.      The structure of DNA nucleotides (sugar, phosphate, and the 4 different nitrogenous bases, how they fit together/complementarity)

2.      The arrangement of those nucleotides into the shape of a double helix

3.      Proper alignment and representation of 3’ – 5’ direction of strands

Part 2: DNA Replication. You must show the following:

1.      Explain the process and outcome of semi-conservative replication, including the role of the enzymes helicase and DNA polymerase, origins of replication, and replication bubbles.

2.      A brief explanation of why DNA replication is important to cells and organisms

Part 3: Protein Synthesis.  How the DNA molecule directs the synthesis of proteins (contains instructions for making them).  Include the following:

1.      The DNA strand must be exactly 25 base pairs in length.

2.      Show the mRNA before editing, with proper details of RNA nucleotides

3.      Show the editing process (get rid of the junk)

4.      Explain the role of tRNA at the ribosome; show how amino acids are added

5.      You must end up with a polypeptide chain of exactly 5 different amino acids

6.      Your must use the correct start and stop codes.  Look them up.

You may work backwards or forwards (start with DNA code and find out what you get, or start with the amino acids you want, and go backwards) depending on how your brain wants to do it.  Keep track of your work, use pictures, and show every step.

You may show this electronically, with video or animation and narration, with a model, or in words and pictures.  The slides, photos, and images you use must be your own.  The end product will be a blog post that explains the goal of the project and walks the reader through the steps.  This assignment is due before you leave for Winter Break, by class time on 12/17. 

Get started.