miniPCR® Sleep Lab™ – Lark or Owl?

Participate in an authentic investigation on the genetics of sleep and circadian clocks.

Students will test their own genotypes at the circadian clock gene Per3 that has been associated with sleep behavior preferences in humans. This gene’s coding region contains a VNTR (variable number tandem repeat) that is polymorphic (variable) across individuals.  Different variants of this VNTR in Per3 have been associated with a preference for evening or morning activity–whether you are a morning or evening type. Students will assess their own Per3 genotypes, while also assessing their sleep phenotypes through a simple circadian questionnaire, with the ultimate goal of learning about circadian clocks and the study of genetic associations. Participate in an authentic open inquiry investigation on the genetic underpinnings of sleep.

Reagents and consumables supplied by user:
- Agarose (electrophoresis grade)
- DNA stain (e.g., GelGreen™)
- Gel electrophoresis buffer (e.g., 1X TBE)
- Distilled or deionized H₂O (to dilute buffer concentrate – not included in Lab Companion Kit)
- Microtubes
- PCR tubes

Required equipment:
- Micropipettes and tips
- Thermal cycler
- Gel electrophoresis and visualization system

Storage notes:
- Reagents require freezer storage
- Reagents are stable for 12 months when stored in the freezer