How cool is it to extract DNA from your own cells and wear it in a bottle around your neck? Years 8 and 9 students from Stewards School found out how cool it was when they visited the Science Alive Gallery at the Leisure-zone this week. They collected cheek cells from inside their mouths and subjected them to a chemical process releasing the DNA. This DNA, which resembled white cotton wool, was then sealed inside a small bottle which they wore as a necklace. A slide show featuring cells and their components was also shown inside the bubble theatre.

Allannah Barke (Year 9) : ‘I enjoyed extracting the DNA from my cheek cells because it was something I had never done before and it was fun to experience. I learnt a lot about cells and what my DNA looks like which was quite cool.’

George Strachan (Year 9) : ‘ It was educational, hands-on and interesting. I learnt a lot about DNA and cells that I didn’t know before. The GSK staff were also friendly and helpful.

Mrs Geraldine Wright

Science Curriculum Development Manager