Ontario Curriculum - Grade 12 Biology SBI4U Strand D: Molecular Genetics

Education Services / L’équipe des services d’éducation
27 May 2015

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Addressing Ontario Grade 12 Biology SBI4U Strand D: Molecular Genetics with CurioCity Resources

Ontario’s Grade 12 Biology SBI4U has a Strand on Molecular Genetics. The following CurioCity resources can help you address expectations from that strand:

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RADI-N2 & You Educator Resources OverviewEducator Resources

Overview document for the educational resources associated with the RADI-N2 Action Project Read More »

Flying the Radioactive Skies Case Study - BiologyEducator Resources

In this case study, students will learn about the biological effects of ionizing radiation and will discuss the health risks from cosmic radiation to flight crews and other long-distance... Read More »

Biotechnology Learning Continuum, Grades 7 to 12Educator Resources

This document outlines a framework to assist educators and curriculum and resource developers in providing Canadian students with opportunities to develop awareness and understanding of... Read More »

Mia's Case: Who Needs Biotechnology?Educator Resources

This case study introduces students to biotechnology and invites them to explore their first impressions of biotechnology and the past and present impacts of biotechnology in society, as... Read More »

Jacob's Case: The Case of the Loaded QuestionEducator Resources

This case study invites students to grapple with authentic issues surrounding genetically modified and engineered organisms, in this case, food and specifically, soybeans. Read More »

Andre's Case: Diabetes and Stem CellsEducator Resources

Explore the science and issues surrounding diabetes and the future potential of stem cell therapy in Andre's Case. Read More »

Jiao's Case: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Stem CellsEducator Resources

Explore the science and issues surrounding stem cell donations and transplants in Jiao's Case (update of 2011 version). Read More »

Twin trouble: Why DNA evidence isn’t always reliableArticles with Starting Points

The DNA of identical twins is identical, which makes it impossible to determine which twin was present at a crime scene using a DNA test. Read More »

How does X-chromosome inactivation cause calico coloration?Videos with Starting Points

Why does the calico coloration only occur in female cats? It happens because in order for proper development to occur in females, one of the x chromosomes must be switched off resulting in... Read More »

Telomeres: The Key to Immortality?Articles with Starting Points

Recent discoveries in the field of genetics suggest that one of the keys to unlocking the secret of immortality lies within each and every one of us. Read More »

When was DNA first used in the criminal system?Articles with Starting Points

CSI re-runs would have you believe that DNA identification is the be-all and end-all of crime scene investigation - but this isn't quite the case. Read More »

Your Athletic DNA?!Articles with Starting Points

What if you could take a medical test that would tell you what sports you might be best suited for? Read More »

Mutations...Articles with Starting Points

What's really behind the X-gene? Read More »

Kalydeco: Opening the gates to a cystic fibrosis cureArticles with Starting Points

This new drug may serve as a model for developing other drugs that address the root causes of CF Read More »

Genetically-engineered life: Friend or foe?Articles with Starting Points

In recent years, GE has inspired much debate, as potential benefits are weighed against potential dangers and ethical concerns. Read More »

Plant Pharming: Old Crops Learn New Tricks Articles with Starting Points

You probably don't normally associate tobacco with good health, or carrots with cutting-edge medical breakthroughs. But all that might be about to change. Read More »

Ensuring Genetically Modified Foods Are Healthy and SafeArticles with Starting Points

Before hitting Canadian supermarket shelves, all GM foods need to be evaluated for health risks by Health Canada and for environmental risks by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Read More »

Agricultural BiotechnologyVideos with Starting Points

North Carolina Biotech Centre- focus on cotton, soy-based vaccines Read More »

Should scientists clone extinct species?Articles with Starting Points

What could be more thrilling than cloning dinosaurs and letting them roam free on an island? Read More »

Beyond the Backlash: The Facts About BiofuelsArticles with Starting Points

News about biofuels is everywhere these days. More often than not, the stories are about the controversy surrounding their contribution to the increased cost of food. Read More »

Innovations in Cancer ResearchVideos with Starting Points

In December of 2014, students from the Biotech Club at Donald A. Wilson Secondary School visited the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) to learn more about current innovations in... Read More »

Should scientists clone extinct species?Articles with Starting Points

What could be more thrilling than cloning dinosaurs and letting them roam free on an island? Read More »

Method of the Year 2009: iPS cellsVideos with Starting Points

A short film by nature.com. Now that the generation of iPS cells is becoming routine, researchers can use them as a tool to make discoveries in disease and basic biology. (5:26 min.) Read More »

Will MERS be another SARS? What have we learned?Articles with Starting Points

First there was SARS. Now there is MERS. What have we learned since the SARS epidemic to protect us? Read More »

Regenerative Medicine in the News: A Windpipe for HannahArticles with Starting Points

In a groundbreaking operation in April 2013, a 2 ½-year-old girl received a functioning trachea (windpipe) after breathing through a plastic tube in her neck since she was born. Read More »

Doping in Sports: Understanding the Culture and Science of CheatingArticles with Starting Points

Understanding what substances athletes use, as well as why and how they use them, helps shed light on the problem commonly referred to as “doping” and its role in sports today. Read More »

Understanding obesity: genes and environmentArticles with Starting Points

Obesity is one of the major health issues facing humanity today. Its causes lie both in our genes and our environment. Read More »

Making Human Proteins with Gross Green StuffArticles with Starting Points

Through a process called pharming, algae may provide a more efficient way of producing insulin and other proteins for pharmaceutical use. Read More »

A Natural Selection Articles with Starting Points

Where should we, as a society, place limits on the use of the powerful information that is contained in every human cell? Read More »

Beyond AGCT: DNA’s two “new” bases Articles

Whereas the “old” bases and the bonds between them affect the sequence of your DNA, the “new” ones relate to epigenetics—how genes are turned “on” and “off”. Read More »

Metagenomics: Unveiling hidden lifeArticles

Metagenomics is the study of DNA sequenced directly from any environment where microbes can be found. Read More »

Bread gets a boost from genome scienceArticles

The draft sequence of the bread wheat genome will help plant breeders identify agriculturally important genes and improve crops. Read More »

Go Barcoding! Filling the Stadium of LifeArticles

DNA barcoding is a new approach to taxonomy, the classification and naming of groups of living things according to shared characteristics. Read More »

What's Your Style?Articles

Adrian Salamunovic and Nazim Ahmed are the co-founders of DNA11, a company that creates abstract art from DNA samples. But to really understand why this art is so unique, we have to know a... Read More »

It's all in your genesArticles

Did you ever wonder why you have the same allergies as your father? Or questioned whether you really would eventually turn into a worry-wart like your mother? Read More »

Viruses are not living things. So what are they and where did they come from?Articles

Viruses just don’t meet the requirements to be included in the Tree of Life. And although they have several ideas, scientists aren’t sure where viruses come from. Read More »

It’s (not) alive! Zombie genes wake up after deathArticles

Scientists can’t bring people back from the dead just yet. However, they have discovered that some parts of your cells remain active long after you die. Read More »

A short history of HIVArticles

HIV is a retrovirus that causes AIDS. But where did it come from, and how did it spread? Read More »

Poetic proteinArticles

For some of you, writing poetry may be a breeze. For others, it may be easier to ask you to sit through your next dental exam without wincing. But Canadian poet Christian Bok’s next poetry... Read More »

Why has cancer become so common?Articles

Cancer is an ancient disease that has affected humans for millennia. But it’s only in the past century or so that cancer has become common in Canada and the rest of the Western world. Read More »

Deinococcus radioduransArticles

This tiny microbe can survive in extreme conditions including a lack of nutrients, variations in pH, drought, and high temperatures. It can even live in a vacuum! Read More »

Bacon is the new yogurt: Filling your grocery bag with cell culturesArticles

The butchers of the future will sell meat that have never been part of a living animal. Instead, meat will be made from cultured cells. In other words, it will be grown outside the body,... Read More »

Can genetic engineering happen naturally?Articles

Scientists have discovered that the sweet potato genome contains bacterial genes. Read More »

GM Foods: Am I Allergic to Them?Articles with Starting Points

Genetically modified foods (GM foods or GMOs) breed controversy so read on to see what both sides have to say about them. Read More »

GM? GE? Gee Whiz!Articles

What’s the difference between genetically engineered (GE) and genetically modified (GM) plants? Read More »

Lunchtime Low-DownArticles

You might not be the type to ponder world issues over lunch, but it just so happens that the food you're eating is quite likely at the centre of a controversy that is dividing both science... Read More »

Clones!Articles

Administration (FDA) decision that cloned animals as food are no different from regular animals, you will surely be hearing about cloned animals a lot more in the future. Read More »

The supermarket tomato: A story of flavour lost and (hopefully!) foundArticles

Scientists have discovered that the modern supermarket tomato is missing some important flavour components called volatile compounds. Read More »

The secrets of bacterial sex: How male-specific phages could fight disease and clean up wasteArticles

Just like humans, who can be infected by viruses through sexual contact, bacteria are vulnerable to viral infection during conjugation, a process that is sometimes called “bacterial sex”. Read More »

Yeast: Rising to the challenge in food biotechnologyArticles

Yeast continues to be an indispensible part of food biotechnology. Read More »

Food Safety: New Frontiers in Microbial DetectionArticles

One day, techniques for verifying the safety of food could be as fast and simple as using the checkout scanner at the grocery store. Read More »

Oil-eating microbesArticles

Imagine you’re at your favorite seafood restaurant. You peruse the menu: tuna, shrimp, scallops, crude oil… oil?!  Read More »

The Future is 10,000-times Smaller than a PinheadArticles

Nanotechnology works on a scale of only a couple of nanometers in length. Within this tiny world lies the possibility for microscopic medical devices to fight disease and for computers to... Read More »

What is nanotechnology?Articles

Nanotechnology involves the construction of functional materials at the molecular/atomic scale, and it overlaps a variety of disciplines including engineering, chemistry, physics and biology. Read More »

Self-cleaning windows and more: the fabulousness of nano-materials.Articles

Nanotechnology has applications in medicine, engineering, energy, and the fields of application keep growing. This is because it allows for very specific control of the material, but how... Read More »

What are stem cells and how are they used?Articles

Question from Toronto Ontario Read More »

The stem cell discoveryArticles

In proving the existence of stem cells, Ernest Armstrong McCulloch and James Edgar Till made one of the most important advancements in Canadian medical research since Banting and Best... Read More »

Stem Cells - What's Myth, What's Truth!Articles

It seems like a new breakthrough in stem cell research is announced almost every day. Read More »

Danielle Cohen's blog from StemCellTalks Vancouver 2015Articles

Danielle is a high school student who attended a symposium on stem cell treatments for diabetes in Vancouver on May 15, 2015. Read More »

Ryan Scott's blog from StemCellTalks Vancouver 2015Articles

Ryan is a high school student who attended a symposium on stem cell treatments for diabetes in Vancouver on May 15, 2015. Read More »

Partners for life: The human microbiomeArticles

You and your microbiome--all the microbes that live in your body--form a complex and interconnected ecosystem! Read More »

Personalized medicine: Drugs that fit your genesArticles with Starting Points

Personalized medicine adapted to a specific patient’s genetics could be used in a wide variety of ways, including treatments for mental health conditions, cancer, and infectious diseases. Read More »

Repairing Surgical Wounds with a Little MusselArticles

Mussels' natural “stickiness” is helping scientists develop alternatives to techniques currently used to close up surgical wounds. Read More »

Cancer Treatment? Yew Got It!Articles

Plants can be real lifesavers, providing treatments for deadly diseases Read More »

The HPV vaccineArticles

Media coverage of HPV has increased dramatically since Health Canada approved Gardasil, the first vaccine to protect against HPV and a major breakthrough in the fight against cervical... Read More »

Clones!Articles

Administration (FDA) decision that cloned animals as food are no different from regular animals, you will surely be hearing about cloned animals a lot more in the future. Read More »

Need a new organ? Grow it!Articles with Starting Points

How far along are we? Can we grow our own organ? Read More »

Banking BloodArticles

On March 14, 2011, the provincial and territorial health ministries announced the creation of Canada’s first national and publically funded umbilical cord blood bank.  Read More »

Skin deepArticles

What would you think if I told you that a patient with leukemia (a cancer of the blood cells) could be cured using cells from their own skin? Read More »

Scientists Create a Synthetic Genome!Articles

Paving the road to custom-made organisms? Read More »

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)Videos

This 1:28 minutes video animation shows the steps of PCR. Read More »

"Scientists for Better PCR" Videos

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is an important biochemical technology used to amplify DNA. Listen to this song and find out more about the PCR process. Read More »

Recombinant DNA TechnologyVideos

A 1:00 minutes video that uses plasticine to show the steps of recombinant DNA. Read More »

DNA Barcoding in the Protection of BiodiversityVideos

Learn about how DNA Barcoding is used to help in food safety & to help protect endangered species - part of the Read More »

Biotechnology & Preserving BiodiversityVideos

Learning about DNA Barcoding & how it's used on species to help identify them and help preserve biodiversity - part of the Read More »

DNA Barcoding at the Toronto ZooVideos

Meet the Biotech club from Donald A. Wilson Secondary School in Whitby and learn about their DNA Barcoding Action Project Read More »

What is Genomics?Videos

Ever heard about genomics and wondered what it was? Watch this video by Ontario Genomics Institute and Genome BC to find out! Read More »

DNA BioRapVideos

All about DNA replication, and a phat beat. Read More »

High Speed Gene SequencingVideos

Within the next few years, Helicos BioSciences may be able to read an entire human genome for under one thousand dollars. This video explains the science behind their amazing technology. Read More »

Sex-linked traits.Videos

Ever wonder what people are talking about when they refer to a sex-linked trait? Watch this video and find out! Read More »

GTCAVideos

Learn all about enzymes and what role they play in DNA replication. Read More »

Heredity - Crash CourseVideos

Biology - Watch this video to learn a little bit about heredity and genetics. Read More »

18 Things You Should Know About GeneticsVideos

18 Things You Should Know About Genetics is an animated film that presents fundamental background information about genetics, as well as offering some quirky but interesting facts about... Read More »

Protein StructureVideos

Animation of protein structure.(2:28 min) Read More »

You are what you eat! - Crash CourseVideos

Biology - Carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. You are what you eat -learn about what it is you are actually eating - and what you are made of! Read More »

Why We Haven't Cured Cancer?Videos

Ever wonder why we still haven't found a cure for cancer? SciShow’s Hank explains that it is partly due to the fact that there are many types of cancer and they use our genetic mechanisms... Read More »

Mutations: The potential power of a small changeVideos

Discusses the difference between gene and chromosome mutations and explores the significance of these changes, both pros and cons. (7:21 min.) Read More »

Animal BiotechnologyVideos

This 30:01 min video describes techniques for the genetic improvement of domesticated animal species including selective breeding, artificial insemination, cloning, and genetic engineering. Read More »

Synthetic BiologyVideos

This video produced by the Synthetic Components Network interviews various scientists and describes the new research area of synthetic biology. (10:00 min) Read More »

What is synthetic biology?Videos

Very easy to understand animation describes what synthetic biology is, how it works, and future potential. (3:24 min.) Read More »

Synthetic biology explained 2Videos

Uses lego blocks as an analogy to explain how synthetic biology works using “biobricks”. Also explains how commonplace synthetic biology has become and looks at the pros and cons of this... Read More »

Synthetic Biology ExplainedVideos

This animation from TechNYou explains how from selective breeding to genetic modification, our understanding of biology is now merging with the principles of engineering to bring us... Read More »

Synthetic Life Becomes RealityVideos

In this 2:14 minutes video Craig Venter discusses the process and the implications of this discovery. Read More »

The Synthetic KingdomVideos

Synthetic Biology is turning to the living kingdoms for its materials library. Read More »

E. ChromiVideos

A collaboration between designers & scientists in synthetic biology saw seven Cambridge University undergraduates genetically engineer bacteria to secrete a variety of coloured pigments,... Read More »

GMOs (Healthcare Triage)Videos

This video by Healthcare Triage presents a brief summary of the research and evidence surrounding the safety of GMOs. Read More »

How Are GMOs Created? (GMO Answers)Videos

This video shows how GMOs are made, through the story of the Hawaiian Rainbow Papaya. Read More »

Biotechnology at the cutting edgeVideos

An introduction to four top American researchers and the basics of biotechnology in the research areas of biofuels, genetics, health, and agriculture. These scientists explain what drew... Read More »

Meet the SupercowVideos

These gigantic cows resemble bovine body-builders. See how breeders have achieved such amazing results through selective breeding. Belgian Blue bull. Read More »

Sustainable Agriculture and the EnvironmentVideos

This 5:20 min video produced by the Council for Biotechnology Information outlines how agricultural biotechnology is impacting on farming practises and the production of food and energy. Read More »

The Terrifying Truth About Bananas Videos

Bananas are one of the most popular fruits and are very nutritional. In this episode, SciShow’s Hank explains how the monoculture of commercial banana production is threatened by a new... Read More »

14 Years of Biotech AgricultureVideos

An overview of the global commercialization of biotech crops between 1996 to 2009 by Dr. Clive James. (3:39 min) Read More »

Global Adoption of Biotech CropsVideos

Global Adoption of Biotech Crops is a 5:38-minute video on the commercialization of biotech crops worldwide and how the technology has contributed to meeting the challenge of doubling food... Read More »

Cartagena Protocol on Biotech SafetyVideos

Protecting biodiversity from adverse effects of modern biotechnology. (6:45 min) Read More »

Biotechnology and Drought: Producing more Crop per DropVideos

A 1:19 minutes video by the Council for Biotechnology Information about drought tolerant crop innovations. Read More »

Biotechnology: The Invisible RevolutionVideos

Video from EuropaBio showing applications of biotech in every day life (4:42) Read More »

The Science of Addictive Food - CBCVideos

The CBC reports on how companies can use science to create addictive foods. Read More »

Algae Competition: The Future of AlgaeVideos

This thought-provoking 4:45 min video looks into the future, exploring emerging themes, schemes and dreams in algae architecture and landscape design. Read More »

Introduction to BioinformaticsVideos

What is Bioinformatics? What is its connection to high throughput genomic sequencing? Read More »

Biofuel-Powered FlightVideos

A GARDN research project generates tangible benefits: Porter Airlines operated Bombardier Q400 aircraft in Canada's first biofuel-powered revenue flight. Read More »

What is Biomanufacturing?Videos

A short video (1:50 min) that defines biomanufacturing. Read More »

Biofuels: Renewable Jet FuelVideos

Chemist James Kinder describes how Boeing is doing research in the development of biofuels, and in particular for aviation jetfuels. Read More »

Energy 101: BiofuelsVideos

A 2:46 min video by the US Department of Energy that shows how biomass is broken down and refined into sustainable biofuels via biochemical and thermochemical processes. Read More »

Cell CultureVideos

This EuroStemCell video features Dr. Sally Lowell from the University of Edinburgh. It explains the culture of stem cells the laboratory. (6:49 min.) Read More »

Stem Cell Basics: Educational cartoon for young learners Videos

This cartoon was part of a Pittsburgh Tissue Engineering Initiative-Carnegie Science Center exhibit. It explains stem cells basics and is appropriate for younger students. (2:04 min.) Read More »

Stem CellsVideos

Ever wonder what is so special about stem cells? Now is your chance to learn more about stem cells and why they are important! Read More »

Super CellsVideos

Stem cells were discovered 50 years ago , in 1961, by two Canadian scientists. In celebration, the Ontario Science Centre put together this video to explain how they work. Read More »

Introduction to Stem Cell Biology - Part 1 of 2Videos

Dr Elia Piccinini begins StemCellTalks Toronto 2015 with an Introduction to Stem Cell Biology (view part 2). Read More »

Introduction to Stem Cell Biology - Part 2 of 2Videos

Dr Elia Piccinini begins StemCellTalks Toronto 2015 with an Introduction to Stem Cell Biology. Read More »

Glowing Mice Shed Some Light on Stem CellsVideos

Scientists at San Diego’s Anticancer, Inc. were able to find a link between neural stem cells and skin stem cells. This discovery could make stem cell treatment of neurological disorders... Read More »

Stem cells - the future: an introduction to IPS cellsVideos

(2012) An educational video by EuroStemCell.org that describes the steps towards the Nobel prize-winning discovery of iPS cells by Shinya Yamanaka. Suitable for general audiences and... Read More »

What are embryonic stem cells?Videos

Dr. Janet Rossant narrates this excellent animated introduction to embryonic stem cells. See other videos in this series & learn more about stem cells in our Read More »

A Century of Stem Cells - Johns Hopkins MedicineVideos

This video provides a good summary of the milestones of stem cell research and the significance of these discoveries over the past 100 years. (4:35 min.) Read More »

Regenerative Medicine (Animation)Videos

This 2:29 min animation on regenerative medicine explores the contribution of enabling bio- and nano- technologies and their associated socio-cultural, health, safety and environmental impact. Read More »

Stem Cells for Regenerative MedicineVideos

(2012) UCSF stem cell scientist Bruce Conklin, MD, discusses how off-the-shelf cell lines could be made available for recipients in a timely way, with better matching and lower risk of... Read More »

Stem Cell Tracheal Transplant Saves Girl's LifeVideos

A trachea, grown from the cells in a lab has saved a young girl's life. Watch the video to find out how! You can also Read More »

Stem Cells 101 - Part 1Videos

Learn the basics about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cells 101 - Part 2Videos

Learn the basics about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cells 101 - Part 3Videos

Learn the basics about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cell Tourism (Part 1 of 4)Videos

Part 1 of Timothy Caulfield's presentation at StemCellTalks 2015 on Stem Cell Tourism, unproven therapies & celebrity hype ( Read More »

Stem Cell Tourism (Part 2 of 4)Videos

Part 2 of Timothy Caulfield's presentation at StemCellTalks 2015 on Stem Cell Tourism, unproven therapies & celebrity hype ( Read More »

Stem Cell Tourism (Part 3 of 4)Videos

Part 3 of Timothy Caulfield's presentation at StemCellTalks 2015 on Stem Cell Tourism, unproven therapies & celebrity hype ( Read More »

Stem Cell Tourism (Part 4 of 4)Videos

Part 4 of Timothy Caulfield's presentation at StemCellTalks 2015 on Stem Cell Tourism, unproven therapies & celebrity hype. Read More »

Cell therapy vs. acellular medical devices for managing Type 1 diabetes - Part 1 of 3Videos

Professor Michael Sefton introducing the debate by talking about the options for managing Type 1 Diabetes (view part 2). Read More »

Cell therapy vs. acellular medical devices for managing Type 1 diabetes - Part 2 of 3Videos

Dr. Alan Wassyng explaining his side of the debate, arguing for the use of acellular medical devices (view part 3). Read More »

Cell therapy vs. acellular medical devices for managing Type 1 diabetes - Part 3 of 3Videos

The final part of the debate between Professor Michael Sefton and Dr. Alan Wassyng. Read More »

Stem Cells Debate: Treating type I diabetes with stem cellsVideos

Join the debate about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cells Debate: Audience Questions #1Videos

Join the debate about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cells Debate: Audience Questions #2Videos

Join the debate about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cells Debate: Audience Questions #3Videos

Join the debate about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Stem Cells Debate: Audience Questions #4Videos

Join the debate about Stem Cells - part of our Stem Cells Theme page! Read More »

Harvard Stem Cell Institute - Progress reportVideos

(2009) A short video from the Harvard Stem Cell Institute explaining some of the progress and next steps in stem cell research. Appropriate for senior biology students. (3:06 min.) Read More »

How A Baby Can Have 3 Biological ParentsVideos

Mitochondrial Replacement therapy produces a baby that technically has 3 parents. Find out how this is possible. Read More »

Mitochondria Replacement (aka 'Three Parent Babies') - Some FactsVideos

Provides the scientific explanation behind a proposed treatment, for certain genetic disorders, called Mitochondria Replacement (sometimes referred to as 'Three Parent Babies'). Read More »

Flu Vaccine: Keeping Up With The VirusVideos

Dr. James Steinberg of Emory University School of Medicine sheds light on how influenza vaccine is made. Read More »

Why Math? Toronto Zoo: ReproductionVideos

Dr. Mastromonaco, reproductive biotechnologist, discusses the math and science behind reproduction at the Toronto Zoo & advice to students interested in pursuing a career in biotechnology.... Read More »

Robot with a rat brain?Videos

This video shows a working robot that is controlled by rat brain cells. Wow! Read More »

High Speed Gene SequencingVideos

Within the next few years, Helicos BioSciences may be able to read an entire human genome for under one thousand dollars. This video explains the science behind their amazing technology. Read More »

Mitochondria Replacement (aka 'Three Parent Babies') - Some FactsVideos

Provides the scientific explanation behind a proposed treatment, for certain genetic disorders, called Mitochondria Replacement (sometimes referred to as 'Three Parent Babies'). Read More »

Three-parent babies could cure diseasesVideos

CNN news segment that examines the science and ethical considerations behind the “three-parent” IVF technique that can be used to cure genetic diseases. Read More »

Designer Babies?Videos

This CBS news segment reports on a fertility doctor who says he can help parents choose a lot more than the baby's gender and examines the controversy surrounding designer babies. (Original... Read More »

DNA ExtractionBackgrounders

Learn the basics of DNA Extraction Read More »

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)Backgrounders

If you wanted to make a copy of a DNA sequence, what would you do? Read More »

Sanger SequencingBackgrounders

Learn about DNA sequencing and the Sanger method Read More »

Radiation Effects on the BodyBackgrounders

This backgrounder explains the potential effects of radiation on the human body. Read More »

Radiation Effects on Cells & DNABackgrounders

This backgrounder explains the effects of radiation on cells and DNA. Read More »

What is a Species?Backgrounders

How we determine & identify species Read More »

Overview of Genetically Engineered CropsBackgrounders

This backgrounder provides an overview of GE crops. Read More »

Recombinant CloningBackgrounders

Learn about the steps involved in recombinant cloning and the applications of this biotechnology. Read More »

Regulation and Labeling of GM FoodsBackgrounders

Read about Regulation and Labeling of GM Foods (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Genetically Modified SoybeansBackgrounders

Read about genetically modified soybeans (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Genetic Modification to Genetic EngineeringBackgrounders

Read about genetic modification to genetic engineering (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Marker-Assisted SelectionBackgrounders

Read about when conventional crop breeding meets biotechnology (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Introduction to Genetic Modification of CropsBackgrounders

Read about genetic modification of crops (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Public Perceptions of Genetically Engineered Food CropsBackgrounders

Read about public perceptions of Genetically Engineered Food Crops (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Canadian Soybeans - Just the NumbersBackgrounders

A soybean infographic. Read More »

Genetically Modified SoybeansBackgrounders

Read about genetically modified soybeans (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Industrial Uses of Soybeans: Thinking outside the Tofu BoxBackgrounders

Read about Industrial Uses of Soybeans (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Versatility of SoybeansBackgrounders

Read about the Versatility of Soybeans (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Conventional Plant BreedingBackgrounders

Read about conventional plant breeding (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

What is Genomics?Backgrounders

Backgrounder on Genomics and the role of the Human Genome Project (Biotechnology 101 Case Study #1) Read More »

Algae biofuel : Can pond scum power the planet?Backgrounders

Learn about the potential of algae as an alternative fuel machine! Read More »

Alternative biofuel feedstocks: Reference listBackgrounders

Find useful reference links for information on alternative biofuel feedstocks. Read More »

Biodiesel - Turning fat into biofuelBackgrounders

Learn about biodiesel - turning fat into biofuel - in this Industrial Biotechnology backgrounder. Read More »

Cellulosic ethanol - Spinning straw into biofuel goldBackgrounders

Learn about the potential of cellulosic ethanol in this Industrial Biotechnology backgrounder. Read More »

Corn ethanolBackgrounders

Is corn ethanol here to stay, or has the kernel popped for the first generation biofuel? Learn more in this Industrial Biotechnology Backgrounder Read More »

Biofuels at a glanceBackgrounders

Get a quick overview of the different kinds of biofuels and our biofuel related resources! Read More »

A brief history of fermentationBackgrounders

Learn about the whens, whats and wheres of fermentation over the ages in this Industrial Biotechnology backgrounder. Read More »

An introduction to biofuelsBackgrounders

Learn about biofuels, a green alternative to fossil fuels, in this Industrial Biotechnology backgrounder. Read More »

The many uses of Xylanase: industrial applicationsBackgrounders

Xylanases are enzymes commonly found in micro-organisms, marine algae, protozoans, snails, crustaceans, insects, seeds, plants, and other natural sources. Read More »

Regenerative MedicineBackgrounders

Regenerative medicine is a field of medicine that aims to treat human disease by replacing damaged tissue with cells or tissues created from stem cells or engineered biological materials. Read More »

Stem Cells and Types of Stem CellsBackgrounders

Learn about the properties of stem cells and different types. Read More »

Induced Pluriopotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)Backgrounders

iPSCs are stem cells created from differentiated cells by cellular reprogramming. Read More »

Biotechnology at a GlanceBackgrounders

Learn about different types of biotechnology and their products. Read More »

What is Biotechnology?Backgrounders

Learn about what is biotechnology (Biotechnology 101 Case Study #1) Read More »

Biotechnology: A TimelineInteractives

Biotechnology is changing our world every day. View our timeline to see how the field of biotechnology has progressed over the years! Read More »

Biotechnology: Answers to Some Common QuestionsBackgrounders

Learn the answers to some common questions about Biotechnology. Read More »

Canadian Innovation in Pharmaceutical Research & Development TimelineInteractives

The Making Canada Better Timeline highlights the amazing contributions of Canadian research to the development of new medicines to fight diseases and disease conditions that affect human... Read More »

Regulation and Labeling of GM FoodsBackgrounders

Read about Regulation and Labeling of GM Foods (Agriculture & Biotechnology Case Study #1) Read More »

Karen Bedard - Assistant Professor in PathologyCareer Profiles

Karen's research finds the gene mutations that cause diseases. Read More »

Sean Myles - ResearcherCareer Profiles

Sean works as a researcher, trying to find out how to breed new crops that don't require as many chemicals & pesticides to survive! (learn more about Sean as he participates in Read More »

Sylvie Cloutier - Research ScientistCareer Profiles

Sylvie is a molecular geneticist currently doing research on flax - the best plant based source of omega-3 fatty acid! Read More »

Tom Themeles - Education Program CoordinatorCareer Profiles

I develop education programs based on their environmental toxicity and mutagenicity kits. The kits are currently under use globally by a variety of universities, colleges, individuals,... Read More »

DAVE HOOPER - Winery Operations ManagerCareer Profiles

Dave makes wine with a great group of people & has fun doing it! Read More »

Paul Gordon - Advanced Bioinformatics SpecialistCareer Profiles

Paul uses his programming skills to help sequence genes leading to knowledge & even therapy for diseases. (Paul will also be participating in DNA Day 2014) Read More »

Reproductive Physiologist - Research at the Toronto ZooCareer Profiles

Scientists at the Toronto Zoo engage in critical research for species protection and conservation. We talk to Gabriela Mastromonaco to find out what being a Reproductive Physiologist at the... Read More »

Regulatory Affairs Associate - Mixing Science with a Little Business and LawCareer Profiles

Ever stop to think how a pharmaceutical or medical product finally makes it to the shelves of your local drug store? Who makes sure they’re safe? Who makes sure they meet government... Read More »

Manager, Business Development - Mixing Business with ScienceCareer Profiles

Ever wonder how a drug goes from a discovery in a lab all the way to the shelves at your local drug store? Technology transfer is the field that deals with discovering new inventions and... Read More »

Monica Gautam - Director of Scientific AffairsCareer Profiles

As a pharmacist, I seek to understand how new medications can help patients. I assist pharmaceutical companies to solve problems in bringing new medicines to Canadians. Read More »

Leann Sweeney - Business Unit DirectorCareer Profiles

Science and business go hand in hand in many companies, like Amgen Canada, a biotechnology company.  Leann Sweeney started out in genetics in university and discovered the business side of... Read More »

Laura Accettola - Director, Development Operations for Amgen CanadaCareer Profiles

The world of medicine is a fascinating area to study and work. It is made up of a combination of health care professionals, academic and industrial researchers, government, but have you... Read More »

Researching stem cells...Career Profiles

Dr. Keith Brunt is a research fellow in regenerative medicine and uses stem cells in his research.. Read More »

Antonis AsiminasResearch Profiles

I am currently working on a novel rat model of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). FXS is the most common form of inherited mental retardation, and the most common known genetic cause of autism. Read More »

Katherine R. DuncanResearch Profiles

I have finished my undergraduate and masters in chemistry (MChem), finished my PhD in Biomedical Sciences and have done a Postdoc in the department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, now on... Read More »

Qu'est ce que l'effet de serre? (KEZAKO)Videos

Kezako, la série documentaire qui répond à vos questions de science, aborde cette fois-ci la question "Qu'est ce que l'effet de serre?" Read More »

Brittany PequegnatResearch Profiles

Brittany is researching carbohydrate-based vaccine development. Read More »

DNA DayEvents

Established by Let’s Talk Science and Genome Alberta, DNA Day is a unique day where students, teachers and the public can connect with Canadian experts to learn more about genetics and... Read More »

StemCellTalks TorontoEvents

StemCellTalks Toronto is a yearly outreach initiative happening March 10th, 2017, established to facilitate knowledge transfer between academia and high school students pertaining to the... Read More »

StemCellTalks VancouverEvents

StemCellTalks is a national stem cell biology outreach initiative in partnership with Let’s Talk Science and the Stem Cell Network. It was established to facilitate knowledge transfer... Read More »

StemCellTalks OttawaEvents

StemCellTalks is a national stem cell biology outreach initiative in partnership with Let’s Talk Science and the Stem Cell Network. It was established to facilitate knowledge transfer... Read More »

StemCellTalks CalgaryEvents

StemCellTalks is a national stem cell biology outreach initiative in partnership with Let’s Talk Science and the Stem Cell Network. It was established to facilitate knowledge... Read More »

StemCellTalks HamiltonEvents

StemCellTalks is a national stem cell biology outreach initiative in partnership with Let’s Talk Science and the Stem Cell Network. It was established to facilitate knowledge transfer... Read More »

StemCellTalks EdmontonEvents

StemCellTalks is a national stem cell biology outreach initiative in partnership with Let’s Talk Science and the Stem Cell Network. It was established to facilitate knowledge transfer... Read More »

RadiationHot Topics

This Featured Topic has resources on many different aspects of radiation, from the types of radiation we are exposed to naturally on Earth to the radiation astronauts experience in space. Read More »

10 cool things that biotech has given usHot Topics

For National Biotechnology Week, we take a look at some of the cool things that biotechnology has given to us Read More »

Agricultural BiotechnologyHot Topics

The world has billions to feed. Biotech has made major contributions to food production. But what is genetically engineered food, and is it safe for you to eat? Read More »

Industrial BiotechnologyHot Topics

Biotechnology is big business with big potential - but what are bioproducts, and how are they made? Investigate the science & issues of bioproducts such as biofuels. Read More »

Medical BiotechnologyHot Topics

Biotechnology has helped make major strides & improvements in Medicine. But does it step too far? Learn about the potential of - and debate over - stem cells. Read More »

Stem CellsHot Topics

What are stem cells? Why is the research and innovation in this area so exciting? Learn stem cells basics and more. Read More »

Will human cloning ever be successful, in your opinion?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Stephanie Vogt Read More »

do you think it is moral to clone?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

If we can clone a sheep, why can't we clone recently extinct animals (eg. quaggas)?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

DNA Day experts answer your questions about cloning plants versus cloning animalsQuestions & Answers

DNA Day experts answer your questions about cloning plants. Learn More about DNA Day. Read More »

DNA Day experts answer your questions about cloning animalsQuestions & Answers

Our DNA Day experts answer your questions about chromosomes. Learn More about DNA Day. Read More »

How is information coded in DNA?Questions & Answers

Sam Yeaman, a professor at the University of Calgary and one of our DNA DAY experts, explains how information is coded in DNA.

Read More »

What is DNA?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Harman Sawhney Read More »

What are you hoping to improve in the apples? How do you predict phenotype?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Sean Myles Read More »

What does DNA stand for?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

Is proteomics related to genetics at all? Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

What was Rosalind Franklin's role in determining DNA structure? Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

Dr. Thomas Merritt answers 'What do you think about Rosalind Franklin's contribution to the discovery of the structure of the DNA molecule?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at St. Lewis Academy in St. Lewis, Labrador. Read More »

Dr. Thomas Merritt answers 'We learned that if you lined up the DNA strands from every cell in the human body end to end - it could go to the sun and back MANY times. How far could the DNA of a monkey stretch?' Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at St. Lewis Academy in St. Lewis, Labrador. Read More »

What forces are responsible for difference in genome sizes?Questions & Answers

Roland Wilhelm, one of our DNA Day 2015 experts, answers your question 'What forces are responsible for difference in genome sizes? Why is the human... Read More »

Can physics be incorporated into the study of DNA?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Sean Myles. Read More »

How many different DNA samples are in your body?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Monique Haakensen. Read More »

How long does it take the real CSI guys to do genetic fingerprinting?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

Which DNA can make twins?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Ethan Yang Read More »

Can we cut out parts of the human DNA sequence that don't seem to serve any purpose?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

What is junk DNA?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

Why do non-coding genes greatly outnumber the coding genes in our DNA?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Robert Hanner Read More »

In the case of parent- child DNA testing, how is it possible to use the parent's sibling's DNA?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

If mitochondrial DNA was altered would that affect the cell in which it resides?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Sean Myles Read More »

DNA Day experts answer your questions about chromosomesQuestions & Answers

Our DNA Day experts answer your questions about chromosomes. Learn More about DNA Day. Read More »

What is the role of DNA in transgenic plants and how do they impact society?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Sean Myles Read More »

What does it mean when a company says they can ' sequence your dna' for you?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

Dr. Monique Haakensen answers 'What domestic animals have been sequenced?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at Fort Richmond Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Read More »

Dr. Monique Haakensen answers 'Is it possible to bring back dinosaurs using their fossils?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at Southeast Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Read More »

Dr. Dennis McCormac answers 'How many varieties of DNA exist in the world?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at West Kildonan Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Read More »

How long do you think it will be before doctors are using genome decoding technology on patients on a regular basis?Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at St. Lewis Academy in St. Lewis, Labrador. Read More »

What kind of jobs are available in genomics?Questions & Answers

Dr. Pierre Meulien, President and CEO, Genome Canada answers the question "What kind of jobs are available in genomics?" as part of DNA Day 2015. Learn more at Read More »

What is DNA barcoding?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Ethan Yang Read More »

How do extra chromosomes form?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Harman Sawhney Read More »

Do telomeres affect our age?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

Can computers identify bonding patterns that give RNA folding structures? Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Paul Gordon Read More »

Does DNA die with an organism?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Sean Myles. Read More »

Does your body adapt to DNA mutation or attempt to correct the altered DNA?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Paul Gordon Read More »

What is the most common gene mutation?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Ethan Yang Read More »

If we are products of positive mutations, what are negative mutations?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Karen Bedard Read More »

Are there increases in genetic mutations from chemicals in our environment? Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

Why is ALD only in boys?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Jay Ingram. Read More »

Do astronauts get enough exposure to radiation for there to be a long term effect?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Aaron Goodarzi. Read More »

Is it possible to change the DNA of a plant to change its use? Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Sylvie Cloutier Read More »

Is it possible to mix animal and human DNA to have heightened senses, or run faster?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Richard Sparling Read More »

DNA Day experts answer your questions about combining animal and human DNAQuestions & Answers

Our DNA Day experts answer your questions about combining animal and human DNA. Learn More about DNA Day. Read More »

Will it ever be possible to reverse or modify genetic conditions?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Karen Bedard Read More »

What processes are used to attain the DNA code from genetic material?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Harman Sawhney Read More »

The Spartans killed off what they considered to be weak. Could this be compared to DNA altering now?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

Why do people have problems with gene therapy?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Karine Morin Read More »

Are there any cases of people who use gene modification to harm others?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Karine Morin Read More »

How does genetic engineering work? Of what benefit is this technology?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

Can we genetically modify animals to give them human traits?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Robert Hanner Read More »

Do you think the average Canadian understands issues with genetics and GMOs?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Jay Ingram Read More »

DNA Day experts answer your questions about ChimerasQuestions & Answers

Our DNA Day experts answer your questions about Chimeras. Learn More about DNA Day. Read More »

What is biorefining & what is it used for?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Richard Sparling. Read More »

Is creating biomass for biofuels efficient?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Richard Sparling. Read More »

What genetic traits are of interest to researchers in the area of flax breeding?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Sylvie Cloutier Read More »

By genetically modifying crops, do we lose any of the nutritional value?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Dennis McCormac Read More »

Dr. Sean Myles answers 'If there is a danger to genetically modified foods, what might it be?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at Opeongo High School in Douglas Ontario. Read More »

Do you think that Genetically Modified animals will be approved for human consumption in Canada?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Karine Morin Read More »

DNA Day 2015 Google Hangout (Recording)Questions & Answers

Watch the DNA Day 2015 Google Hangout with Jay Ingram, Francois Bernier & Carolyn Fitzsimmons. Read More »

Do personal DNA testing kits really work?Questions & Answers

Sam Yeaman, one of our DNA Day 2015 experts, answers the question 'I've seen ads for personal DNA testing kits? Do they really work? Read More »

How can they create babies with 3 parents?Questions & Answers

Kofi Adasi, one of our DNA Day 2015 Experts, answers the question : How can they create babies with 3 parents / DNA from 3 people? And why is this so... Read More »

Dr. Monique Haakensen answers 'Is it possible that we choose what traits our children will have?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at Southeast Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Read More »

Have scientists regenerated a tissue or an entire organism using DNA?Questions & Answers

This DNA Day question was answered by Dr. Sean Myles. Read More »

Dr. Monique Haakensen answers the question, 'How many years away do you think we are from making a super human (chosen genes)?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at Southeast Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba.. Read More »

Dr. Dennis McCormac answers 'Is it possible to alter your DNA to become a hybrid (mixing human and animal DNA)? Is there research currently happening?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at West Kildonan Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Read More »

How far away from reality is the possibility of choosing the sex of your baby ?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Robert Hanner Read More »

Dr. Monique Haakensen answers 'Is it possible to clone a human?'Questions & Answers

Question submitted to DNA Day by students at Southeast Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Read More »

Could synthentic dna be used to create synthetic (artificial) life?Questions & Answers

This question was answered by Dr. Robert Hanner Read More »

Amit ScheerStudent Projects

In grade 10, I created a novel cancer therapy, winning multiple regional, national and international awards. Read More »

Education Services / L’équipe des services d’éducation

This content is provided through Let's Talk Science's Education Services team.

Ce contenu est fourni par l'équipe des services d'éducation de Parlons sciences.



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