Double Stranded DNA

Others have shown that DNA origami can be used to help put drugs into biological systems. However, there is currently no research that has shown the use of DNA origami to create devices that can be used to measure cellular forces. Adjustment of this device will be done experimentally by attaching one end of the device to a surface and the other to a long double stranded DNA tether that is attached to a micro bead. A double stranded DNA tether is made by matching the base pairs of two single stranded DNA. If the base pairs match, the two single stranded DNA will naturally attach to each other.
Students will design and create a structure (single stranded DNA) to support magnets (base pairs) and make a design (single stranded DNA) stiff so the magnets (base pairs) never come off.
A blue box with three silver buttons on the side

The student handout will be given to all students working on the design
challenge. It gives a brief recap of the story, it helps the students identify what they are attempting to achieve, and it recaps the design process.

Double Stranded DNA TEK8 Instructor’s Guide

This Instructor’s Guide provides the instructor additional 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.

Telling the Story Video

The Telling the Story 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.

Design Challenge Video

The Design Challenge Video leads students through the design process. It indicates materials available, states what the criteria are for success and any constraints. It also gives a second ‘level’ of the design challenge that allows ‘early completers’ to move on to a slightly more difficult challenge.

PowerPoint Presentation

The presentation can be used in conjunction or in place of the Design Challenge Video.