• California State University, Fullerton

• BIOL MISC

Gene Expression Activity: Making Lemonade In this activity, you’ll be making three different versions of lemonade to simulate the process of gene expression: how DNA drives the synthesis of proteins in a cell. Printing these instructions will help you keep track of the steps! Preparation: Collect Ingredients You will need the following ingredients to complete this lab. There are some choices to give you some flexibility based on the ingredients you have available. For all juices, make sure you use unsweetened option! • ½ cup (4 oz) lemon juice (can use purchased lemon juice or lemons) o If juicing lemons, plan on using about 4 lemons • 2 tbsp orange juice (can use purchased orange juice or oranges) o If juicing oranges, you’ll probably only need one, but you should plan on having two, just to be sure • 1 tbsp red or sweet tropical juice (your choice) o Since you’ll only need a small amount, choose one that you like or that you’ll be able to use for a recipe. o Red juice examples: pomegranate, cranberry, cherry o Sweet tropical juice examples: pineapple, mango, guava • ½ cup sugar • 1 tbsp honey • 1 tbsp salt Additional materials you’ll need: • Tablespoon measure • Teaspoon measure • Four small cups o These don’t need to be the same size o Either label them with tape, or place them on paper with labels: Lemonade, Mutation #1, Mutation #2, Mutation #3 • Liquid measuring cup (used for water) • Something to stir the lemonade (spoon, skewer, chopstick, etc.) • Something to use to record your observations. o While you can answer the questions on Canvas as you go through this activity, it will usually be easier to record y