GMO Experiment
Our STEM writing class (WRIT 120), at the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire, studied genetically modified organisms (GMOs) over the course of several weeks. We had the opportunity to perform an experiment of extracting DNA from several different foods to see if they contained GMOs. There were five groups (Groups A through E), all testing different foods. However, all ended up being corn-based products. Group A tested a soft tortilla shell from Chipotle. After extracting DNA, they discovered that Chipotle soft shell tortillas contain not one, but two, different GMOs. Group B, tested Honey BBQ Fritos, and Group C tested Tostitos tortilla chips, which both tested positive for traces of GMOs. Group D extracted their DNA from buttered movie theater popcorn from Carmic’s. The results of the movie theater popcorn, unfortunately, came back inconclusive due to DNA contamination. Finally, Group E tested Nacho Cheese Doritos and also found traces of GMOs in their results. However, note that because this study was qualitative, we do not know the amount of GMOs found in each food. A qualitative study, with higher power equipment, would need to be performed to determine how much of each food is genetically modified.
Below are pictures to explain our results.
Below are pictures to explain our results.
This is the gel with data for groups A, B, and C. The arrows are pointing to the line that appears in the 4th column for each group. That line means that a GMO source has been detected.
This is the gel for groups D and E. The red arrow is pointing to where a line should be if we were able to extract plant DNA. The first black line is pointing to where a line would be if there was a GMO. The second black line is pointing to the GMO evidence found in Group E’s experiment.
*To view our more extensive summaries, click the links below.
* Scroll you mouse over each picture for a brief description on what your looking at.
* Scroll you mouse over each picture for a brief description on what your looking at.
GMO Experiment Summaries:
Click to view the PDF form of our Scientific Summary and our Concerned Parent Summary
*For the experimental steps we followed, please visit the Experimental Procedure
*For the experimental steps we followed, please visit the Experimental Procedure
Image provided by: http://mashable.com/category/dna/