Lego Modeling

Lego Modeling DNA/RNA/Protein Synthesis Transcription and Translation

Transcription: Building DNA and RNA

Using the code: TACGGGACTTTAGTTCGC, select 4 colors of your choice and match a base letter to the color. Each Lego piece that represents a base must be the same size. Build the first half of the DNA molecule. Then using this first half as the template, create the other half of the DNA molecule following the pairing rules where A is matched with T, and C is matched with G. Examples of possible models are shown below.

Separate your DNA molecule and use the original side you built to transcribe (build) the mRNA molecule that it codes. Since U (uracil) replaces T (thymine) in RNA, use a fifth color to represent the U in your molecule construction. Examples of possible models are shown below.

Translation: Building tRNA, ribosomes, and protein synthesis

Now let’s have some fun. Ribosomes are needed for protein synthesis to occur. Use any design you want and create one ribosome that your mRNA will move through. Possible examples are below.

In order to make a protein, tRNA is needed. Each molecule of tRNA is a three-letter sequence and is the complement of the mRNA strand. Using your Lego pieces, construct the 6 tRNA models, with a Lego amino acid attached to each. Possible examples are below.

Now that you have all parts constructed, you can show protein synthesis. After the group agrees to the way you can show this process, call me over and I will choose representatives in your group to show me the process and answer questions. Your answers are counted as a GROUP grade so it is important that everyone understands the model and process. Questions to Prepare before you call me over:

1. Be sure that you can show me the amino acid chain your model would make if asked.

2. What is a ribosome REALLY made of?

3. What are similarities and differences between DNA and RNA?

4. What happens to tRNA after the amino acid gets dropped off during translation?

5. What would happen if one of the bases in the sequence were left off of the mRNA molecule?

6. What might your hands represent in the model demonstration?