EDUCATION
For scientific communication, we hosted an online workshop targeted towards students of secondary 1 to 5 (grade 7 to 11) to explain the concept and applications of Synthetic Biology and introduce iGEM. Many students signed up to participate in the workshop. Handouts about the main ideas of the workshop discussed were prepared.
Considering junior form schoolmates have not learned much about molecular biology, we started with molecular biology basics, going through DNA, amino acids, and proteins. Learning about the structures and functions of these biological molecules is necessary to comprehend protein synthesis later, which is key in the application of Synthetic Biology.
Assuming that Synthetic Biology was a fairly new concept to the participants, we moved on to explaining how it includes the manipulation of DNA to synthesize proteins of different functions, how it can be implemented in many aspects of daily life, and that it involves many fields of science and technology.
We gave examples of how Synthetic Biology can be used to make paints, fabric and fuel. These applications were not delved into as they were used to give a simple illustration of how Synthetic Biology can be implemented for different uses in daily life. To let the participants know what we do, we also gave a brief summary of iGEM and projects we have worked on. The work of our team could help the participants realize how Synthetic Biology can be closely related to daily life.
To illustrate the applications of Synthetic Biology in detail, two outstanding projects of previous iGEM teams were discussed. The processes of reengineering bacteria to express proteins from genes of interest were encapsulated in the explanation of these projects. Synthesized hair products by iGEM Manchester 2019 were used as an example to demonstrate the use of Synthetic Biology in daily life. An analogy between traditional chemical hair dyes and the proposed protein hair dye was given to show how Synthetic Biology proves to be useful in terms of replacing conventional methods that have negative effects. The procedures from identifying various genes for fluorescent proteins to amplifying the genes, transforming them into bacteria cells to be synthesized and made into hair dyes were elaborated step by step. iGEM team UCL 2019’s drug delivery system project was also selected since a simple survey conducted among the participants before the workshop indicated that they were interested in Diagnosis and Therapeutics. Participants were impressed by the specificity of the proposed drug delivery system, which could be seen as a sign that they were engaged in the workshop and that the use of Synthetic Biology for Diagnosis and Therapeutics could be popular among their interests.
Apart from the Microsoft Teams webinar, we intend to host a 15 weeklong program synthetic biology targeting curious year 7-9 students, so more students can join our workshop. It will be divided into two streams — biology and chemistry.
In the biology stream, concepts such as enzymes, cells and biotechnology will be introduced in the form of lectures and lab work. Graphics, diagrams and PowerPoints will be integrated in the lecture domain, while hands-on experience such as pipetting will help them acquire a more holistic view on the novel concepts of synthetic biology.
In the chemistry stream, fundamentals of chemistry such as atomic structure, the periodic table, intermolecular and intramolecular bonding and stoichiometry will be introduced through the form of lectures and PowerPoints. Visual graphics, hand drawn diagrams and handouts will be provided, along with worksheets to fortify their understanding. Lab activities such as the flame test allows them to acquire hands-on understanding of the subject, along with developing basic lab skills. We hope this chemistry course will guide them in understanding the chemical concepts behind synthetic biology, as well as spark their passion in science.
In the 21st century, we are aware of the significance in applying science in both ethical and environmental friendly methods. Apart from academic content, we have integrated principles of bioethics and green chemistry in our courses. We will hold open discussions concerning bioethics and the application of genetically modified products. Also, atom economy and appropriate labelling of chemicals will be incorporated in the lab sessions to highlight the significance of reducing chemical waste and laboratory safety.
Our course will include discussions and group projects to encourage students to perform their own research. For example, group presentations about bioethics and reduction of chemical waste will be hosted to provide space for students to explore and integrate concepts with their daily live.