DNA, RNA Protein Synthesis Modeling Kit

LAB 72
Lab-Aids

Demystify the DNA/RNA connection in protein synthesis. This hands-on modeling approach makes the complex chemistry of DNA/RNA protein synthesis easily understood! 

$251.00

The kit includes twelve packets of color-coded molecular model components. 


Following step-by-step directions, students will: 

  • Build and replicate an eight-rung DNA molecule
  • Use half the DNA ladder to build mRNA (messenger RNA) 
  • Simulate mRNA movement by placing the mRNA on a ribosome 
  • Simulate translation by matching the mRNA and its codons to the tRNA (transfer RNA) and its anti-codons 
  • Disconnect the protein chain so the process can continue


Kit Includes:

  • 1 Teacher’s Guide
  • 24 Student Worksheets and Guides, Part I and II
  • 12 Packets of color-coded model components containing: 36 white tubes, 10 Adenine (orange tubes), 3 Amino acids with R group, 8 Cytosine (blue tubes), 36 Deoxyribose sugars (black), 8 Guanine (yellow tubes), 18 Hydrogen bonds (white rods), 2 Peptide bonds (gray tubes), 9 Ribose sugars (purple), 1 Ribosome, 10 Thymine (green tubes), 3 tRNA (purple), 5 Uracil (purple tubes)


Scientific Concepts:

  • Demystifies the DNA/RNA connection in protein synthesis
  • Replication, transcription and translation is modeled
  • Experience how information stored in DNA is expressed as a finished protein


Classroom Planning:

  • Number of students: 24
  • Number of groups: Maximum 12 groups per period
  • To complete this kit requires one to two ~50-minute class periods.