ABCC11 Earwax Trait and Genotype Are Suitable Tools for Introductory Labs to Learn Genetics and Molecular Techniques

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Bibliographic Details
Title: ABCC11 Earwax Trait and Genotype Are Suitable Tools for Introductory Labs to Learn Genetics and Molecular Techniques
Language: English
Authors: Tohru Ohta, Rie Takai, Akiko Yoshida, Durga Paudel, Sarita Giri, Takao Kitagawa, Toshiya Arakawa, Yasuhiro Kuramitsu, Tomoharu Tokutomi (ORCID 0000-0003-3001-9936)
Source: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education. 2025 53(6):603-609.
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 7
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Secondary Education
High Schools
Descriptors: Genetics, Science Experiments, Secondary School Science, Computer Assisted Instruction, Molecular Biology, High School Students, Laboratory Experiments, Science Instruction
DOI: 10.1002/bmb.70010
ISSN: 1470-8175
1539-3429
Abstract: Professional experiments in genetic research usually start in a class at university. However, interest in genetic research techniques from an early age is essential. We have continuously performed a short genetic experimental course for high school students using a simple molecular experiment and computer-based learning for Mendelian inheritance. We utilized the phenotype-genotype association of ABCC11 polymorphism (rs17822931), in which the A allele at rs17822931 of ABCC11 is the recessive genotype for the dry earwax phenotype. Conversely, the G allele is the dominant genotype for the wet earwax phenotype. The phenotype is primarily determined by a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs17822931, with the A or G allele, which has global prevalence with few exceptions. The A or G allele is easily typed using the DdeI restriction enzyme. The students experienced molecular techniques and created computer-equipped pedigree charts using the software "f-tree." The earwax trait is an excellent tool for genetic education to understand Mendelian inheritance, genotype-phenotype association, PCR cloning, and restriction enzyme digestion, and it is suitable for discussing the historical and geographical migration of the ancient Mongolian people. After the short course, a survey showed that 81% of students were satisfied, including 71% of very satisfied students.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1490578
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Professional experiments in genetic research usually start in a class at university. However, interest in genetic research techniques from an early age is essential. We have continuously performed a short genetic experimental course for high school students using a simple molecular experiment and computer-based learning for Mendelian inheritance. We utilized the phenotype-genotype association of ABCC11 polymorphism (rs17822931), in which the A allele at rs17822931 of ABCC11 is the recessive genotype for the dry earwax phenotype. Conversely, the G allele is the dominant genotype for the wet earwax phenotype. The phenotype is primarily determined by a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs17822931, with the A or G allele, which has global prevalence with few exceptions. The A or G allele is easily typed using the DdeI restriction enzyme. The students experienced molecular techniques and created computer-equipped pedigree charts using the software "f-tree." The earwax trait is an excellent tool for genetic education to understand Mendelian inheritance, genotype-phenotype association, PCR cloning, and restriction enzyme digestion, and it is suitable for discussing the historical and geographical migration of the ancient Mongolian people. After the short course, a survey showed that 81% of students were satisfied, including 71% of very satisfied students.
ISSN:1470-8175
1539-3429
DOI:10.1002/bmb.70010