Echoes of Taste: Connecting Ancestors and Genetics through the PTC Gene

We invite you to step into the shoes of a genetic scientist and explore the intriguing concept of genetic variation. Through this course, the study of the PTC gene becomes a gateway to understanding our shared human heritage. It demonstrates the power of genetics to uncover the links between us and our ancestors. It highlights the role of genetics in tracing lineage, understanding human evolution, and appreciating the complexity of biological inheritance. From the moment you extract DNA from your own cells, you'll be hooked on the thrill of real scientific discovery. Throughout this course, you will amplify and analyze specific gene segments to uncover single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)—tiny variations that make each of us unique. We will start with the basics of lab techniques like pipetting, DNA extraction, and gel electrophoresis. We will learn major DNA study techniques such as DNA sequencing and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to understand the connection between genotype and phenotype. We will apply these methods to analyze our own genetic code, linking it to tangible traits, like our ability to perceive the bitterness of PTC paper. This course is not just an exploration of genetics but a bridge connecting the dots between complex biological concepts and the personal traits that define us.