Living beings are composed of cells. Every second of every day, these cells communicate to one another. The messages passed lead to cellular functions, growth, and death. One way that these messages are passed is through ligand-receptor interaction. A ligand (small molecule) from one cell attaches to a receptor (protein) on another cell. This attachment is very specific and is therefore much like a lock and key.
Students will design and build a platform or stage to hold a key. The key must be held with enough support such that while the student is holding the platform, WITHOUT touching/holding the key: The key does not fall out of the platform, the key is able to be inserted into a lock, the key is able to unlock the lock. and the platform can hold multiple keys (2,then 3, then 4, etc.).
This Guide provides the instructor information on how to run the design challenge with alternatives for materials and test setups as well as information to help make the design challenge a good educational experience.
The video conveys the societal impact of the student’s research that is the basis for the design challenge and will set the problem-solving context for students. The video also leads students through the design process. It indicates materials available, states what the criteria are for success and any constraints.