WSST Conference 2023

In this workshop participants will explore a three-lesson hands-on module designed to teach enzyme activity in a biology course. The experiments focus on the role of enzymes as catalysts in biochemical reactions and on applications of enzymes in biotechnology. Experiments with catalase highlight the components of an enzymatic reaction and factors that influence enzyme activity, such as temperature, pH and substrate concentration. Students complete the hands-on experiments, collect and interpret data and use modern techniques such as micropipetting. Applications of enzymes in the food biotechnology industry are illustrated with chymosin (rennin), the enzyme used in the cheese making process. An overview of the biomanufacturing of chymosin using recombinant DNA technology is provided, as well as a computer model to illustrate aspects of the enzymatic activity. These lessons align with the NGSS standards HS-LS1-6. Workshop attendees will perform the three experiments presented in this teaching module and have priority sign-up for free Enzymes in Action Kits for their classrooms.