Detection of an ABCA1 variant associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus susceptibility for biochemistry and genetic laboratory courses

Abstract

We selected diabetes mellitus for this laboratory exercise to provide students with an explicit model for scientific research concerning the association between the R230C polymorphism and susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus, which is highly prevalent in the Mexican population. We used a collaborative project-based learning to engage students to direct their own learning process. Students worked in small groups with the same learning goal to research, organize data, and present seminars to experimentally genotype the C230 variant and correctly interpret their results. At the conclusion of this laboratory exercise, the students were able to demonstrate a clear understanding of the relevant biological molecular principles to genotype the C230 variant, showed technical competency to carry out the experimental protocols with proficiency, and interpret their results using statistical analyses. The students discussed their understanding of the genetic technologies and the broader social and ethical implications of the research. A randomly selected team was trained to work as a "sentinel" to monitor their classmates and ensure the proper application of techniques. Moreover, the evaluation of this exercise is shared between the students and the instructors; the students evaluate their own work and the performance of their classmates. At the end of the course, the students complete a questionnaire to anonymously provide feedback and information regarding their perception of the learning outcomes. Overall, the student feedback was positive, indicating that the exercise was useful and that it would help to prepare the students for professional practice.

ABCA1 variant rs9282541 is associated with metabolic syndrome in Maya children

“…T2D and MetS are multifactorial problems that combine environmental and genetic factors (Alpizar Caballero, 2013). Several studies have shown genetic variants associated with metabolic disorders in different populations worldwide (Legorreta‐Herrera et al., 2013; Velazquez‐Roman et al., 2021; Villarreal‐Molina et al., 2012). Due to genetic diversity, it is crucial to perform genetic studies in less‐represented populations as well.…”

Genotype and Phenotype of Caffeine Metabolism: A Biochemistry Laboratory Experiment

“…Several other undergraduate laboratory experiments have been published to genotype medically relevant loci, including variants involved in type 2 diabetes, susceptibility to cancer, , blood type, lactose intolerance, and color vision . However, the experiment reported herein combines several advantageous elements, including its use of noninvasive DNA samples, rather than blood, its determination of an easily measurable phenotype during the same exercise, and its focus on a topic of great relevance to students, with the added bonus that they can determine their own genotypes.…”