- Develop an understanding of genetic disorders, focusing on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
- Develop key science skills related to CRISPR/Cas9, guide RNAs, and gel electrophoresis.
- Justify ethical decisions related to genetic modification and therapeutic gene editing.
Using gene editing to treat diseases.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterised by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness due to mutations in the dystrophin gene. This program uses the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing system to explore potential treatments for DMD. Students will perform a simulated gene-editing procedure to digest the dystrophin gene, gaining hands-on experience with CRISPR technology. The program includes performing micro pipetting, gel electrophoresis, and analysing the results of the gene-editing process. Students will also evaluate ethical considerations related to gene editing.
Details
Duration: 3 hours
Capacity: 24 students
VCE Biology
- Unit 2, Area of Study 1
- Unit 2, Area of Study 3
- Unit 3, Area of Study 1
- Genetic counselling and healthcare
- Molecular biology
- Bioethics and medical ethics
- Research and development in gene-editing technologies
