I had a bit of success in my Biochemistry class. They are analyzing a dipeptide. The goal is to ID the two amino acids present and the sequence. To ID the N-terminus amino acid they functionalize it with a dinitrophenyl group. Then after hydrolysis under 6M HCl conditions they analyze it by TLC and compare to standards. In years past, we've had modest success for various reasons (usually student error). Today we batted 1.000 (which is really 100%).
That made me happy.************************
On a related note, for any of you teachers, lab TAs or similar folk, have you ever given the entire class the same unknown? I have. They tend to freak out, but it teaches them to have confidence in their lab technique.
2 comments:
I always liked to start this lab with the following: Fluorodinitrobenzene is as effective in labeling the N-terminus of the proteins in the skin on your hands, thus rendering you a lovely Simpsons shade of yellow. While it's not exceedingly toxic, it does seriously hamper your chances of getting laid this weekend.
ChemGeek & MJenks: Ok, you are seriously mean chem boys. :-) I think I would be in tears over the yellow hand thing! As for giving them an unknown, can't say I can give any input. I am still battling the "What is a variable?" question with my 7th graders. (BTW, I ALMOST quit teaching as a profession today. So, please forgive me if I don't have any witty responses this week.)
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