This year's Tokyo Science Festival 2024 featured the popular "Become a DNA Master!" Challenge School, a popular event for elementary and junior high school students.
The aim of the project was to deepen participants' understanding and interest in science and technology through hands-on events, and to help them feel more comfortable with the subject.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science exhibited three projects based on the main theme "Learning about the mechanisms of life by looking at the shape of DNA" by explaining DNA and conducting agarose gel electrophoresis experiments.
Project: Let's catch the perpetrator with DNA testing
Theme presentation by Professor Miyaoka
The task was to analyse the DNA of the hair left behind and determine which of Mr./Ms. A and Mr./Ms. B seen on the security camera was the culprit. In order to identify the perpetrator, the DNA from the hair of the two suspects was subjected to electrophoresis and identified with a band.
After a briefing on how to place the DNA of Mr./Ms. in the gel and how to operate the pipette, the experiment began!
- The samples were correctly loaded into the gel wells.
- The electrophoresis results were then checked using a gel imaging device.
The young scientists took advantage of the FAS-DIGI Compact, which has a viewing window. The excitement was palpable as they peered into a secret box.
Unlike other devices with UV light, the FAS-DIGI Compact's safe Blue/Green LED light ensures children can use it safely and confidently!
Our Japanese colleagues were very happy to support this project. It was a great experience for everybody.
More detailed information about this project can be found on the website of our Japanese colleagues (More information).
Are you planning a similar project? Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss how we can support you. (Contact)