1. DNA Necklace Lab

3. Materials clear sports drink cup 15 mL disposable test tube
test tube rack
microcentrifuge tube
transfer pipette
ice cold isopropyl, 70% ethanol, or rubbing alcohol
dish soap solution

4. Prepare Make sure you know which tube is your in the test tube rack:

5. Prepare
Measure 2 mL of sports drink using your pipette and test tube. Pour it into the small cup.

6. Slough off Cheek Cells
Swish the sports drink VIGOROUSLY for 60 seconds. You are trying to slough off as many cheek cells as possible. Gently scrape the insides of your cheeks with your teeth.

7. Slough off Cheek Cells
Spit the sports drink back into the small cup.

8. Release the DNA from Cells
Carefully pour the saliva/sports drink mix into the test tube.

9. Release the DNA from Cells
At the Solution Station: Carefully pour 2 mL (half of a pipette) of soap solution into the test tube.

10. Release the DNA from Cells
Put the lid on your tube tightly.
GENTLY mix the test tube inverting the test tube 5 times. DO NOT create bubbles.
5 times!

11. Release the DNA from Cells
The soap solution breaks the cell membranes and releases the DNA. Cell membranes are made of lipids (This is like soap breaking down grease on dishes.)

12. Separate out the DNA At the Solution Station: Tilt the test tube.
GENTLY pour alcohol down the side of the test tube using your pipette until the total volume reads 13 mL(about one pipette of alcohol).
You are trying to form 2 separate layers. DO NOT MIX!!!

13. Separate out the DNA Let the test tube stand in the
rack for at least 10 minutes.
You will see white or clear
strands appearing – this is YOUR
DNA precipitating (solidifying)!
While waiting, get string for your necklace.

14. Extract the DNA
Use the pipette to GENTLY remove the strands of DNA and squirt it into your microcentrifuge tube.
Add a small amount of leftover liquid into the microcentrifuge tube to preserve your DNA.

15. Create Your Necklace
Center your string on the cap’s hinge, and then snap it shut.
Tie your necklace around your neck.
Show off to all your friends!