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Building a Paper Model of CRISPR-Cas9

Photo of the paper model in action

Topic

  • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
  • Enzymes & Reactions
  • DNA & RNA
  • Biotechnology

Resource Type

  • Activities
  • Labs & Demos

Level

High School — AP/IBCollege
Used In
1 BioInteractive Playlists
Saved By
35 Users
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Description

In this hands-on activity, students build a paper model to explore how CRISPR-Cas9 is used to edit genes.

CRISPR-Cas9, commonly referred to as just CRISPR, is often mentioned in the news for its potential to treat genetic diseases. In this activity, students explore and learn about this biotechnology tool by building a two-dimensional paper model of the CRISPR system. They then apply their knowledge of complementary base pairing to model how CRISPR targets specific DNA sequences. Students are asked to compare their paper model to an online three-dimensional model. In an optional extension, students watch and reflect on videos of scientists explaining how they use CRISPR in their research.

The “Resource Google Folder” link directs to a Google Drive folder of resource documents in the Google Docs format. Not all downloadable documents for the resource may be available in this format. The Google Drive folder is set as “View Only”; to save a copy of a document in this folder to your Google Drive, open that document, then select File → “Make a copy.” These documents can be copied, modified, and distributed online following the Terms of Use listed in the “Details” section below, including crediting BioInteractive.

Student Learning Targets

  • Apply knowledge of DNA structure, function, and base pairing to describe how CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to inactivate and edit genes.
  • Compare two different models of a biological process.
  • Explore different types of research projects that apply CRISPR-Cas9 technology (extension).
     

Estimated Time

One to two 50-minute class periods.

Key Terms

base pairing, complementary sequence, DNA repair, gene editing, gene inactivation, gene knockout, guide RNA, homology-directed repair (HDR), nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), nuclease

Primary Literature

Ma, Hong, Nuria Marti-Gutierrez, Sang-Wook Park, Jun Wu, Yeonmi Lee, Keiichiro Suzuki, Amy Koski, et al. “Correction of a pathogenic gene mutation in human embryos.” Nature 548, 7668 (2017): 413–419. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature23305. 

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Accessibility Level (WCAG compliance)

PDF files meet criteria.

Version History

Date Published 02.25.20
Date Updated 04.13.20

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS3-1, HS-LS3-2; SEP2

AP Biology (2019)

IST-1.L, IST-1.N, IST-1.P, IST-2.E, IST-4.A; SP2

IB Biology (2016)

2.6, 3.5, 7.2, B.4

Common Core (2010)

ELA.RST.9–12.3, ELA.RST.9–12.9

Vision and Change (2009)

CC2, CC3; DP3

Materials

Resource Google Folder (link)
Educator Materials (PDF) 381 KB
Student Handout (PDF) 832 KB
Cas9 Model Sheet (JPG) 1 MB
RNA and DNA Model Sheet (JPG) 736 KB

Additional Materials

  • scissors
  • clear tape

Related Science News

Science Says: Gene editing widely used in range of research
Chinese researcher claims first gene-edited babies
Doctors try CRISPR gene editing for cancer, a 1st in the US
A gene-editing first: scientists tried CRISPR to fight HIV
Doctors try 1st CRISPR editing in the body for blindness

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