Virtual Reality / Plant Science & Biotechnology
VR Extraction of DNA from Plant Material
Overview
This VR module allows students to extract DNA from plant tissues in a fully interactive virtual laboratory. Learners follow each step safely and accurately, gaining a clear understanding of molecular biology techniques.
Materials Provided in VR
- Fresh plant tissue (~1 g).
- Mortar and pestle; optional liquid nitrogen for hard tissues.
- CTAB-based extraction buffer (2% CTAB, Tris-HCl, EDTA, NaCl, optional -mercaptoethanol).
- Chloroform:isoamyl alcohol (24:1).
- Cold isopropanol and 70% ethanol.
- TE buffer.
- Microcentrifuge tubes and centrifuge.
- Heat block or water bath (65C).
Learning Outcomes
- Observe DNA extraction steps in real time, from tissue lysis to DNA precipitation.
- Understand the role of buffers, alcohols, and centrifugation in isolating DNA.
- Practice precise lab techniques and aseptic handling virtually.
- Recognize challenges with plant polysaccharides and learn strategies to overcome them.
Step-by-Step VR Procedure
1
Grind Plant Tissue
Freeze (optional) and grind tissue to a fine powder.
2
Lyse Cells
Mix powder with pre-warmed CTAB buffer and incubate at 65C.
3
Remove Proteins & Debris
Add chloroform:isoamyl alcohol, mix gently, and centrifuge.
4
Isolate DNA
Transfer the aqueous layer, add cold isopropanol, and incubate to precipitate DNA.
5
Pellet DNA
Centrifuge to collect DNA, discard supernatant.
6
Wash DNA
Rinse pellet with 70% ethanol, centrifuge, and air-dry.
7
Resuspend DNA
Dissolve in TE buffer or nuclease-free water; store at -20C.
Key Advantages of VR
- Safe and repeatable training for molecular biology experiments.
- Visualization of otherwise invisible processes like DNA precipitation.
- Encourages hands-on learning and scientific accuracy without chemical hazards.
- Suitable for school labs, STEM programs, and remote learning environments.
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