Harnessing single-stranded DNA binding protein to explore protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry
• Genetics

Background:

• Proteins require interactions with cellular components for function.
• Bacterial single-stranded DNA binding protein (SSB) serves as a model system.
• Characterizing protein-DNA and protein-protein interactions is crucial in molecular biology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess a series of five laboratory experiments for characterizing protein interactions.
• To evaluate the impact of a gamification approach on student engagement and learning.
• To provide flexible experimental modules for integration into various courses.

Main Methods:

• Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA)
• Yeast two-hybrid assays
• Far Western blotting
• Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)
• Fluorescence microscopy
• Gamification for student engagement

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated increased content knowledge and confidence in molecular biology topics.
• Hands-on laboratory exercises were ranked as the most valuable course component.
• Over 50% of students expressed willingness to take another gamified course.

Conclusions:

• The developed laboratory experiments effectively teach protein interaction characterization.
• Gamification is a successful strategy for enhancing student participation and learning in laboratory courses.
• The experimental modules and gamification structure are adaptable for diverse educational settings.