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When a Gene Turned Off Is a Matter of Life or Death

Epigenetic Influences on Gene Regulation

By Tracie M. Addy

When a Gene Turned Off Is a Matter of Life or Death


 

Abstract

When Jordan is diagnosed with brain cancer (glioblastoma multiforme), his college plans are unexpectedly put on hold. This scenario is presented in order to teach students about gene regulation, as the efficacy of the drug Jordan receives for post-surgical treatment is dependent upon the activity level of a gene encoding a protein involved in DNA repair. This “flipped” case study requires students to prepare in advance outside of class by watching several short videos that have been selected to teach the basics of how cancer forms as well as the role of epigenetics in gene silencing. Inside of class, the case is delivered using a progressive disclosure format in which students gradually receive additional information to answer a series of directed questions. To determine a treatment plan for Jordan, students analyze data from a research study involving patients treated for his specific type of cancer. The case is designed for advanced high school biology classes as well as lower-level undergraduate general biology courses for non-majors and majors.

   

Date Posted

04/17/2015

Overview

Objectives

  • Distinguish between the DNA code and the epigenome.
  • Describe how the expression of a gene can be regulated through epigenetic mechanisms.
  • Describe how gene silencing can be implicated in human disease.
  • Predict how DNA methylation at promoters affects gene expression.
  • Describe the role of DNA repair in the treatment of glioblastomas.
  • Interpret graphical representations of data.

Keywords

Gene regulation; gene expression; epigenetics; DNA repair; cancer formation; personalized medicine; gene silencing; methylation; MGMT; epigenome; glioblastoma multiforme; temozolomide

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Genetics / Heredity
Medicine (General)
Molecular Biology
Pharmacy / Pharmacology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Directed, Interrupted, Flipped

 

 

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