Saturday DNA! NYC - Structural Biology: The Building Blocks of Life

Organisms, such as humans, are made up of cells. Some of the most important molecules in cells are DNA and proteins. Cells rely on these molecules to execute very precise and controlled actions, just like we drive cars to move from one place to another. Have you ever wondered what the different “cars” look like in cells, how they work, and why their abundance is important? Join us to learn more about the real-life 3-D structures of proteins and DNA that are life’s building blocks and see for yourself!

Participants will:

• learn how scientists discover what molecules look like;
• use computer software to visualize 3-D molecules (proteins and DNA);
• observe molecule functions and explore the relationship between molecular structure and function; and
• experimentally measure protein abundance using colorimetric copper-sulfate-based test, whose variations are important in health and disease.

Ages 14-adult.