Transgenic Fly Virtual Lab

This interactive, modular lab explores the techniques used to make transgenic flies and demonstrates how these flies can be used to study gene expression.

Scientists use transgenic organisms, which contain DNA that scientists inserted in the organisms’ genomes, to research many biological processes. In this lab, students produce and conduct experiments with virtual versions of transgenic Drosophila fruit flies. Students first create transgenic flies that glow when a gene involved in circadian rhythms is activated. They then use these flies in three experiments to examine gene expression under different conditions and in different locations in the fruit fly’s body. Throughout this lab, students engage in key science practices, including evaluating a hypothesis, collecting data, and interpreting graphs.

The lab contains an interactive lab space, an informational notebook, and embedded quiz questions. It also includes supplementary resources, such as a glossary of scientific terms, images of equipment and tools, and a list of references.

The accompanying worksheet provides structure and guidance as students perform the tutorials, experiments, and quizzes in the lab.