In this hands-on activity, students review the steps of eukaryotic gene expression and learn how this knowledge can be used to treat different genetic conditions. The activity reinforces concepts covered in the Click & Learn “Central Dogma and Genetic Medicine.”

The flow of information from DNA to RNA to protein represents the way most genes are expressed in eukaryotic cells. It is also referred to as the central dogma of molecular biology. Students will review the central dogma by sorting cards that illustrate the molecules involved in transcription, RNA processing, and translation. They will then suggest ways to intervene in this pathway to treat different genetic conditions, including cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease, and sickle cell disease.