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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2008  > May  >
In the Laboratory
Observation of DNA Molecules Using Fluorescence Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy
An Undergraduate Instrumental Analysis Laboratory Experiment
Takashi Ito
Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506
Cover
May 2008
Vol. 85 No. 5
p. 680

Abstract
This article describes experiments for an undergraduate instrumental analysis laboratory that aim to observe individual double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecules using fluorescence microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). dsDNA molecules are observed under several different conditions to discuss their chemical and physical properties. In particular, immobilization of dsDNA molecules on a planar substrate in their stretched form permits students to measure the size of the dsDNA molecules using these microscopic techniques. Comparison between the measured size and literature values provides a means for teaching the characteristics of the microscopic techniques. The experiments can be completed within four hours and are suitable to introduce these modern microscopic methods as well as the basics of nanotechnology to undergraduate students during limited lab hours.
Supplement
Student handout; Detailed experimental procedures
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Contents
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Citation
Ito, Takashi. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 680.
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Keywords
Analytical Chemistry; Biochemistry; Biophysical Chemistry; Biotechnology; Fluorescence Spectroscopy; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; Laboratory Instruction; Nanotechnology; Nucleic Acids / DNA / RNA; Surface Science; Upper-Division Undergraduate
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
3/25/2008
3/28/2008
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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