Transformation of E. coli with Green and Blue Fluorescent Proteins

Grades 8–12.

The Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP), which is responsible for bioluminescence in the jellyfish Aequorea victoria, is used extensively in all areas of science. Many organisms have been transformed with the GFP gene. It has proven to be so useful that scientists have mutated it to produce Blue Fluorescent Protein (BFP).

In this simple experiment, students will transform bacteria either with GFP, BFP, or both! Contains enough materials for groups of 2–3 students each, 20–30 students total. Complete in 50 minutes and grow overnight.

Kit includes BactoBeads™, plasmid DNA, IPTG, ampicillin, transformation solution, ReadyPour™* Agar, Luria broth, petri dishes, sterile pipets, loops, and a link to instructions and a teacher guide. Requires waterbath, 98.6° F (37° C) incubation oven, microwave or hot plate, long wave UV lamp (not included). Some components require refrigeration and freezer storage.

* ReadyPour™ is a trademark of Edvotek, Inc.