title: Using a PyMOL activity to reinforce the connection between genotype and phenotype in an undergraduate genetics laboratory.
abstract: With the purpose of developing an activity that would help clarify genetic concepts related to the connection between genotype and phenotype and the nature of mutations, we designed a three hour teaching module using the PyMol software. The activity starts with two pre-laboratory assignments, one to learn how to use PyMol and the other to read about a specific protein or protein family. During the laboratory students are given instructions where and how to find additional information on a specific disease and its causal mutations in order to prepare a 10-minute, in-class presentation. Using a post activity, anonymous quiz, we found a statistically significant different grade distribution in students that participated in the PyMol activity relative to a control group. We also found a significant improvement in the student's comprehension when answering questions regarding the nature of mutations and protein structure. This demonstrates the utility of this simulation activity as a vehicle to improve student's understanding of specific key genetic concepts.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biology, University of Saint Thomas, 3800 Montrose Boulevard, Houston, Texas 770066-4626, United States of America.
authors.forename: Alexandra D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Simmons
authors.affiliation: Department of Biology, University of Saint Thomas, 3800 Montrose Boulevard, Houston, Texas 770066-4626, United States of America.
authors.forename: Thao K T
authors.initials: TK
authors.lastname: Nguyen
authors.affiliation: Department of Mathematics, Computer Science and Cooperative Engineering, University of Saint Thomas, 3800 Montrose Boulevard, Houston, Texas 770066-4626, United States of America.
authors.forename: Jack L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Follis
authors.affiliation: Department of Biology, University of Saint Thomas, 3800 Montrose Boulevard, Houston, Texas 770066-4626, United States of America.
authors.forename: Albert
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ribes-Zamora
mesh_terms: D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D005823:Genetics / Q000193:education*; D005838:Genotype; D006801:Humans; D010641:Phenotype