Engineering Human Tissues for Medical Impact

Description

This session will introduce students to the field of tissue engineering. They will learn the principles behind how biological tissues are made in labs and what cutting-edge research is happening today. We will conduct a bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay, which is a colorimetric assay used in laboratory settings to quantify total protein in a biological sample. Completing this assay provides a great opportunity for students to gain the practical skill of using micropipettes- which are tools widely used across many scientific fields. To conduct the BCA assay, the two given reagents will be mixed together in a particular ratio to make a ‘working reagent’. The working reagent will then be added to the samples and standards in a 96 well plate. The samples will turn a purple color after a few minutes, allowing the students to estimate how much protein is in each sample by comparing it to a standard curve. This will also help to hone their abilities to follow protocols, analyze data, and draw conclusions from their experimental results, all of which are skills necessary to becoming a tissue engineer.

Offered At

Columbia Engineering

Columbia Engineering Outreach Programs aim to provide greater accessibility to academic and professional opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, especially for traditionally underrepresented local stakeholders. Through community engagement, we enhance the quality and reach of learning at all levels.

Our updated Inside Engineering program now brings Columbia Engineering lab content straight to you! These now are featured in the format of hands-on, engaging engineering design activities and lessons that you can do right in your own homes or classrooms.

The Engineering Speaks program now accommodates remote sessions that allow K-12 students to hear directly from engineers from Columbia University, through virtual panels, workshops, and seminars.

Details

Subjects

Science, Engineering, Life Sciences

Capacity

35 students, 1 chap. per 35 stu.

Duration

45 min.

Activity

School Based Program

Grades

9, 10

Price Options