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Halo-Ed: Extreme Microbiology and
Astrobiology |
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Microbiology
As a companion to this website, we have developed a
comprehensive set of laboratory exercises using Halobacterium NRC-1 as
the model organism for teaching a wide range of subjects, including Basic
Microbiology Part 1 and Basic
Microbiology Part 2, making
media, exponential growth, colony formation, mutation, antibiotic
resistance, motility, flotation, DNA function, transformation,
complementation, biotechnology, genomics, and bioinformatics. They provide
educators and students with an ideal introduction on how to handle, grow, and
visualize microorganisms in the laboratory. Students at any level from middle
school and beyond can learn how to grow microbes on agar plates using Halobacterium
sp. NRC-1. This microbe requires extremely high salinity for viability and
growth, which invites discussion of the limits to life and astrobiology in
the classroom. This microbe is also visually stimulating and its medium
prevents contamination by other potentially unsafe species. Students can
safely learn how to use sterile techniques critical for microbiologists and
how to purify microbial strains using plate-streaking techniques. For those
with interest in astrobiology, they may ponder 'How do you make a spacecraft
looking for life elsewhere completely sterile?'. Skills learned in
these modules are also important for use in the biotechnology, food, and
medical industries. The module contains easy to follow step-by-step instructions.
Students will enjoy seeing the exciting results of their newly found skills.
The exercise can be used to teach AP Biology, biotechnology, and microbiology
and was originally developed in collaboration with Carolina Biological Supply
Company. Haloarchaea were studied originally
with respect to preservation of fish, in particular, “reddened
klippfish”. Here is an image of such a specimen: Photo of “Dried Cod” reproduced
with permission from Luis Carvalho, 2021 We enjoy collaborating – let us know if you have ideas or
questions you would like to explore together by contacting the Halo-Ed
Team. For
Questions and Suggestions, contact the Halo-Ed
Team |
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Copyright © Shiladitya DasSarma & Priya DasSarma |
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