I've just uploaded my 5 minute video, hopefully completing the last entry requirement for this stage of the competition! I've got my fingers crossed, and I'm really hoping I haven't skipped a vital competition rule.

Biotech in Action

In the video, I've show how my Polymerase Chain Reactor works, how it compares to what's out there, and hopefully shown its innovation and connectedness. What I've also shown is the power of molecular biology.  In the demo, I've demonstrated how DNA profiling can identify a person from the DNA evidence that everyone leaves behind wherever they go.

DNA profiling can be used to identify people by their DNA, and I've used a method based on some STR's, which are segments of DNA that vary in length between individuals. By taking samples from many people, and comparing the results of a sample of unknown identity, we can match that sample to our database.

Of course, to be relatively certain, you need to measure many different STR regions, as the variance of any one particular STR is not-so-high. Usually, about a dozen or so are used by the FBI or Interpol.

I just used one, called TH01, which is used by both of those agencies. That's nowhere near enough to identify a person usually, but I cheated :)

I asked for DNA sample from a bunch of friends, and did a TH01 STR analysis on all the samples. Many samples looked identical, but some were identifiable. So, I just used the 4 there were the most clearly different, and used them in the demonstration.

Besides the PCR machine, the only lab equipment needed for such an experiment is a centrifuge and a gel electrophoresis system. Both can be made at home, and make a fun and cheap weekend construction project.

It's a great proof-of-principal, but I have something really great planned next, for the next round of the competition. Are you ready for some Gene Hacking?