Which Little Piggy Went to Market?
Bioinformatics and Meat Science
Author(s)
Abstract
In this case study, a scientist is contacted by a friend from a meat processing plant who is looking for a test to determine the sex of the animals that contributed to a particular batch of meat. He needs to know because meat from uncastrated males (boars) imparts an unpleasant odor (boar taint) to pork products, something he wants to avoid. Developed for use in an introductory biology class, the case introduces students to basic genetics concepts, DNA structure, the technique of PCR, genetic databases, and the use of positive and negative controls during scientific investigations. The case could also be used in high school classes, especially as a tool for learning about (or reviewing) the scientific process as it requires students to develop hypotheses, design experiments, and analyze and interpret data.
Objectives
- Provide students with experience in how science is done.
- Provide students practice in designing experiments.
- Provide students with the opportunity to analyze, interpret, and draw conclusions based on real data.
- Help students learn about polymerase chain reaction.
- Help students identify differences between the sexes and the genetic basis of sex determination.
- Introduce students to bioinformatics and genetic databases.
Keywords
Polymerase chain reaction; PCR; pig; boar; boar taint; SRY; gilt; sow; barrow; ELISA; enzyme linked immunosorbent assay; experimental design; androsterone; skatoleEducational Level
High school, Undergraduate lower divisionFormat
PDFType Methods
InterruptedLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Biotechnology | Genetics / Heredity | Bioinformatics | Food Science / Technology | Molecular Biology |
Date Posted
10/25/05Teaching Notes
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