Quick Answer:The Diagnosing Gene Defects investigation has students use agarose gel electrophoresis on a non-human DNA sample to look for the mutation behind sickle-cell anaemia, for a class of 40.
Last updated: 18 October 2026
Key Features
Studies the genetic mutation responsible for sickle-cell anaemia.
Uses a non-human DNA sample.
Agarose gel electrophoresis technique.
Shows how a mutation alters haemoglobin and how mutations cause disease.
Class size: 40 students.
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Class size
40 students
Technique
Agarose gel electrophoresis
Sample
Non-human DNA
How It Is Used
Students run the DNA sample on an agarose gel and look for the changes that mark sickle-cell anaemia, a hereditary blood disease. Along the way they learn about genes and how a genetic mutation can lead to disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Diagnosing Gene Defects investigation use human DNA?
No. Students search for changes in a non-human DNA sample.
